What are heat-sensitive medicines?

Drugs that increase heat sensitivity

Public health expert Dr. Jagadish J. Hiremath agrees that several types of medications can increase your sensitivity to heat and affect your body’s ability to regulate its own temperature. Some of these include:

Antihypertensives (blood pressure lowering drugs): These include diuretics, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. Ability to cool the body by reducing sweating and blood flow Heat builds up on the skin, increasing the risk of dehydration and heatstroke.

Psychiatric medications: Antidepressants, antipsychotics and mood stabilizers such as lithium can affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature, inhibiting sweating and increasing the risk of overheating.

Anticholinergics: Used for conditions like urinary incontinence and allergies, these medications can reduce sweating and alter the body’s ability to cool itself.

Diuretics: It is often prescribed to treat heart disease and high blood pressure. Diuretics increase the amount of urineThis can lead to dehydration and loss of blood volume, making it harder for your body to regulate its temperature.

Stimulants: Medications used to treat ADHD and certain diet drugs can increase body temperature and decrease your sense of heat, increasing your risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Antidepressants, antipsychotics and mood stabilizers such as lithium can affect the body’s ability to regulate its own temperature, inhibiting sweating and increasing the risk of overheating (Source: Freepik)

Symptoms of fever-related side effects from medications

If you’re taking these medications, you should be on the lookout for fever-related symptoms, says Dr. Hiremuth. “These symptoms can include: Heat exhaustion or heat stroke“Symptoms that require immediate medical attention,” he claims, are as follows:

*Dizziness or fainting

*Excessive or insufficient sweating

*Fast heartbeat

*Muscle spasms

*Nausea or vomiting

*Confused or upset

*Severe headache

Precautions and procedures to keep you safe

If you’re taking medications that make you heat-sensitive, Dr. Hiremuth recommends drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. “Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can cause dehydration.”

She adds: “Stay in an air-conditioned environment during the hotter hours. Wear light, loose clothing and use fans and cool towels.” Be aware of the signs of heatstroke If you notice any symptoms, act immediately.”

Dr. Hiremuth recommends talking to your doctor about adjusting the timing of your medications to minimize the effects of heat exposure: “Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day. Understand the potential side effects of your medications and talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have.”