Be aware, the heat can affect your reactions to medications


By AGENCY

Not drinking enough fluids could impair kidney function, and possibly affect the concentration of a medication’s active ingredient in your body. — dpa

During prolonged heat waves, it may be necessary to adjust the dosage of your medications, experts say.

This is because high temperatures can not only alter their effects – which is why it is recommended that medicines be kept in a cool, dark and dry place – but also your body’s reaction to them, points out the consumer advice centre in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

If you take a medication that suppresses your sensation of thirst along with a diuretic, for instance, you could become dehydrated, the consumer advisors warn.

Perspiring heavily and not drinking enough fluids could impair kidney function, and possibly affect the concentration of a medication’s active ingredient.

Some medications can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, known as photosensitivity, increasing the risk of sunburn or leading to strong skin reactions.

These include various antibiotics, as well as pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory drugs such as diclofenac and ibuprofen, according to the consumer advisors.

Heat can also intensify your body’s reactions to anti-hypertensive medications.

The German Heart Foundation warns that hot weather can put people with high blood pressure or cardiovascular (heart) problems under serious strain that could result in a sudden drop in blood pressure, circulatory collapse or heatstroke.

So if you regularly take medications and outdoor temperatures are high, you should listen even more closely to your body than usual.

Ask your pharmacist or doctor about potential side effects and whether your medication dosages should be adjusted.

Last but not least, some general advice: On hot days, drink plenty of fluids, stay in the shade, and avoid strenuous activities and emotional stress. – dpa

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Drugs , heat

   

Next In Health

Want to know how well you are ageing? Here's an easy test
Could I survive a ‘Jazzerthon’ with long Covid?
Baby Boomers living longer, but more ill, than their parents
Paired liver donations: Where livers are swapped between donors and recipients
The positive effect of taxing sugary drinks
Are stray animals dangerous disease carriers?
Britain bans sale of disposable vapes
Does pleading insanity mean you can escape legal punishment?
Record-breaking climate change threats to health
How iodine may help keep our breasts healthy

Others Also Read