10 Medications Linked to Heat

Key Points:

• Certain medications, including antidepressants, GLP-1 drugs, beta-blockers, antipsychotics, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, and some anticonvulsants, can increase heat sensitivity by impairing sweating, thermoregulation, and hydration, raising the risk of heat-related illnesses.
• Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, with July 2024 recorded as the hottest month ever, making awareness of medication-related heat intolerance especially important during summer months.
• People on these medications should stay well-hydrated, monitor for symptoms of dehydration or heat illness (such as dizziness, fatigue, confusion, and low urine output), and consult healthcare providers about managing risks in hot weather.
• Specific risks include lithium toxicity from dehydration, altered insulin absorption increasing hypoglycemia risk in diabetics, and GLP-1 medications suppressing thirst, all of which necessitate careful monitoring and preventive measures.
• Developing a heat safety plan with a healthcare professional and sharing it with loved ones is recommended to help manage the increased vulnerability to heat-related health issues while taking these medications.