Some common prescription medicines can pose serious health risks during hot weather, a pharmacist has warned
Certain medicines can increase the risk of dehydration, overheating or dizziness(Image: Getty Images)
People taking certain common medications are being urged to take extra precautions as the UK braces for what could be the hottest May bank holiday on record.
The UK saw its hottest day of the year so far on Friday (May 22), with temperatures reaching 26.9C in Heathrow, west London, according to the Met Office. Forecasters say temperatures could climb to 33C in parts of southern England and the Midlands on bank holiday Monday (May 25), surpassing the current May record of 32.8C.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber heat health alerts across large parts of England, warning there could be a rise in deaths, particularly among older people and those with existing health conditions.
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Temperatures could climb to 33C in parts of the UK this bank holiday weekend(Image: Getty Images)
With temperatures set to reach 27C in Greater Manchester on Monday, TV pharmacist Thorrun Govind has warned that four groups of medicines can increase the risk of heat-related illness.
These include diuretics, some blood pressure medicines, antidepressants and antipsychotics.
Ms Govind, a pharmacist based in Manchester and former chair of the Royal College of Pharmacy, said: “Hot weather can affect both how our bodies respond to medicines and how medicines themselves perform if they are not stored correctly.
“Medicines such as diuretics, some blood pressure medicines, antidepressants and antipsychotics can increase risks linked to heat, including dehydration, overheating or dizziness.
“Patients should stay hydrated, avoid excessive heat exposure and seek advice from a pharmacist or GP before making any changes to prescribed medication.”
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has previously issued guidance warning that hot weather can make some medicines more dangerous.
Some medicines can increase the risk of heat-related illness(Image: Getty Images)
It also said people taking diuretics such as furosemide may be more vulnerable to dehydration because the medicines increase fluid loss through urination.
Some blood pressure medications, including ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers, can also make it harder for the body to regulate temperature during sudden hot spells. They may also suppress the body’s natural thirst response.
Antidepressants and antipsychotic medications can increase the risk of overheating, while some diabetes treatments, including insulin and metformin, may make dehydration symptoms harder to recognise.
Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, headaches, tiredness, confusion and dark urine. Health officials say older adults, young children and people with heart or kidney conditions are particularly at risk.
The MHRA also warns that some medicines can make skin far more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of severe sunburn. These include certain antibiotics, antidepressants, diuretics and skin treatments.
One medicine requiring particular care is methotrexate, which is used to treat conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and Crohn’s disease. It can trigger extreme skin sensitivity even after relatively short sun exposure.
Ahead of the predicted heatwave, the UKHSA has urged people to stay out of direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day between 11am and 3pm, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid strenuous activities during peak temperatures.
Dr Anya Gopfert, consultant in health protection at UKHSA, said: “We know that even moderate heat can lead to serious health problems, especially for older people and those with certain health conditions, so it’s important that everyone takes simple precautions while enjoying the warm weather over the coming days.
“If you have friends, family or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice.”
People are also being advised to watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including tiredness, faintness, intense thirst and heavy sweating.
Symptoms of heatstroke – which is a medical emergency – include confusion, seizures, a fast heartbeat and hot skin that is not sweating. Anyone suspected of suffering heatstroke should be treated as an emergency and 999 should be called immediately.