Some Drugs May Increase Health Risks During Heat Waves During periods of extreme heat, it is crucial to take precautions to protect one’s health. Certain medications can exacerbate the effects of heat waves, leading to potentially serious consequences. Medications That Can Affect Body Temperature Regulation * Antipsychotics: These medications may impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature, making individuals more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. * Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, such as tricyclics and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can potentially increase body temperature. * Dementia medications: Drugs used to treat Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia may also affect temperature regulation. Medications That Can Dehydrate the Body * Diuretics: These medications, used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention, can dehydrate the body and increase the risk of heat exhaustion. * Laxatives: Excessive use of laxatives can deplete fluids and electrolytes, leading to dehydration. * Anticholinergics: These drugs, used for various conditions including Parkinson’s disease and urinary incontinence, can dry out the body and inhibit sweating. Medications That Can Increase Sun Sensitivity * Retinoids: These medications, used to treat acne and skin conditions, can make the skin more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, increasing the risk of sunburn. * Psoralens: These drugs, used in combination with phototherapy to treat psoriasis, increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. What to Do If you are taking any medications, it is essential to discuss the potential risks with your healthcare provider during heat waves. They may recommend adjusting dosages, changing medications, or taking additional precautions. General Recommendations * Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water and electrolyte-rich beverages. * Avoid spending extended periods in the heat. * Wear loose, lightweight, and breathable clothing. * Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest hours of the day. * Cool down with cold showers or baths. Conclusion Certain medications can increase the health risks associated with heat waves. By understanding the potential effects of these drugs and taking appropriate precautions, individuals can stay safe and minimize the impact of extreme heat on their well-being.Heat Wave Risks for Patients on Certain MedicationsHeat Wave Risks for Patients on Certain Medications As the eastern U.S. experiences a major heat wave, patients taking certain medications face increased risks for heat-related illnesses. Medications Affecting Hydration and Cooling Some medications can make it difficult for the body to hydrate or cool itself effectively: * Diuretics: Prescribed for heart failure, kidney disease, or high blood pressure, can cause dehydration or hinder temperature regulation. * Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors: Used for high blood pressure, can elevate the risk of fainting, falls, and suppress thirst. * Beta-blockers: Also used for blood pressure, increase the risk of fainting, falls, and impede sweating. * Calcium channel blockers: Another blood pressure medication, can impair body temperature regulation. * Antipsychotics: Specifically haloperidol, olanzapine, and risperidone, prevent sweating. * Antidepressants: Can induce sweating and suppress thirst, leading to dehydration. * Thyroid replacement medications: Increase body temperature and hinder temperature regulation. * Stimulants: Like amphetamines for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), raise body temperature. * Over-the-counter antihistamines: Such as diphenhydramine, promethazine, and doxylamine, impair temperature regulation and reduce sweating. Emergency Department Data and Hospital Risks During the summer of 2023, emergency departments saw a spike in heat-related illnesses. Climate change is contributing to “longer, hotter, and more frequent extreme heat episodes,” according to the CDC. Hospitals also face the risk of suspending services if they experience air conditioning outages. Additional Resources For more information on the impact of extreme heat on hospitals last year, follow the link provided in the text.