A pharmacy expert has warned millions of Britons taking common drugs to be aware that the UK’s sweltering heatwave could affect their medication, or how the effects of their medication could impact their body. Rhysa Phommachanh, health specialist at Landys Chemist, said diabetes drug insulin and adrenaline auto-injectors used to calm allergic reactions are among those that can be affected. She explained: “Insulin can become less effective if it is exposed to high temperatures, as heat can cause it to degrade and reduce its ability to properly control blood sugar levels.
“EpiPens can become less stable if stored above the recommended temperature of 25°C, which may reduce the reliability of the dose in a life-threatening allergic reaction.” High temperatures can also cause pressure changes inside asthma inhalers that “may alter how the medication is released, potentially reducing the accuracy of dosing,” Ms Phommachanh added.
Meanwhile, people who are taking diuretics — drugs that encourage your kidneys to flush excess salt and water from the body in urine — should be particularly careful about fluid loss, which can contribute to dehydration.
Ms Phommachanh warned that antihistamines taken for conditions such as hay fever “can have a drying effect on the body and may reduce sweating, which limits the body’s ability to cool itself effectively in high temperatures”.
She also highlighted the hidden risks of taking antidepressants such as sertraline, fluoxetine and citalopram in hot weather.
The expert said: “Some antidepressants can interfere with the brain’s regulation of body temperature and sweating, increasing the risk of overheating or heat exhaustion.
“Certain antibiotics (such as those commonly used for infections) can cause photosensitivity, making the skin react more strongly to UV light and increasing the risk of sunburn.”
Ms Phommachanh said acne treatments including retinoids can also think or sensitise the outer layer of skin, making it more vulnerable to UV damage and sunburn in strong sunlight.
She added: “Most medications should be stored in a cool, dry place. Exposing them to high temperatures in parked cars, direct sunlight, or humid bathrooms can cause them to degrade and fail to work properly.
“Always check your patient information leaflet for specific storage instructions, stay well hydrated, apply high-factor sunscreen, and definitely speak to a pharmacist if your medicine changes colour, smell, or texture.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
