Common medications that pose a risk during heatwaves in Australia
Health experts in Australia have warned that some common medications may increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat stress and heatstroke, especially for patients who take them regularly.
Dr. Kim Lo, Vice President of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners in New South Wales and Canberra, stated that many medications can interfere with the body’s natural mechanisms for regulating temperature, reducing its ability to sweat and adapt to high temperatures.
Some of these medications can also increase dehydration, raising the likelihood of serious heat-related conditions in Australia.
Experts highlighted medications for mental health disorders, ADHD, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, migraines, allergies, and constipation, which can affect the body’s ability to cool itself or maintain fluid balance.
Consultant pharmacist Deborah Hawthorne explained that heart and diabetes medications can be especially dangerous during dehydration and may harm the kidneys if adequate hydration is not maintained.
She also noted that some medications, such as those used for acne treatment, can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight.
Lo urged anyone taking regular medications, or giving them to their children, to consult their doctors or pharmacists to understand the impact of these drugs during heatwaves and how to reduce risks.
She emphasized the importance of reading consumer information provided with both prescription and over-the-counter medications to understand potential side effects.
Additionally, Hawthorne warned against storing medications under unsuitable conditions, noting that extreme heat can damage the active ingredients in some medications, such as insulin or liquid antibiotics, and advised keeping them in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator according to instructions.
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