Health experts warn that patients taking medications for high blood pressure, allergies, and mental health conditions may be more susceptible to illnesses related to extreme heat. Experts explained that diuretics, a type of drug commonly used to increase urination for treating heart failure, high blood pressure, or kidney diseases, can cause problems. While fluid loss can be beneficial for these conditions, it may sometimes lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances such as magnesium, potassium, or salt, making it difficult for the body to regulate its temperature.
Patients on these types of medications are advised to drink plenty of water and be cautious of dehydration signs, such as headaches, dizziness, dark urine, and thirst. Another potentially dangerous medication in hot weather is angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, used by patients with high blood pressure. With rising temperatures, these patients may be at higher risk of fainting or falling.
"Beta-blockers" also pose a risk, as they inhibit sweating, increasing the risk of overheating due to insufficient cooling. Many antipsychotic medications used to treat mental health conditions, such as haloperidol, olanzapine, and risperidone, affect your ability to sweat. Dr. Michael Redlener, the medical director of the emergency department at Mount Sinai West Hospital, told The New York Times: "Your body temperature is likely to get hotter when you're on those medications."
Some antidepressants can increase risks as well since they enhance sweating while suppressing thirst, which makes users more prone to dehydration-related complications. Those taking thyroid hormone medications may also be affected, as these can raise body temperature and complicate effective temperature regulation.
Certain over-the-counter medications, including sleeping pills and hay fever remedies, may also make you more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Consulting a doctor when necessary is recommended.
