Some Medications Can Make Heat More Dangerous for Older Adults

The extreme heat Southern California is experiencing can be dangerous for older adults especially for those taking medications for their health conditions.

Commonly prescribed medications, over-the-counter medications, and certain medication combinations can increase heat-related risks for older adults.

This may include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, dopaminergic medications, beta blockers, and others.

Interfering With Your Body's Cooling System

Thermoregulation is the process your body uses to keep its internal temperature in a safe range. When your body temperature starts to rise, sensors in your central nervous system send messages to the hypothalamus.

The hypothalamus then sends signals to different organs and body systems to help cool you down through mechanisms such as sweating. Some medications can interfere with this process. When that happens, the body may not respond to the temperature change as effectively which can lead to heat stroke.

Medications may also affect thirst. This can be risky during hot weather because the body may need fluids before a person realizes it. When an older adult does not drink enough fluids, dehydration can happen more quickly.

Some medications can also make the skin more sensitive to the sun. This may cause sunburn-like symptoms, a rash, or other unwanted side effects.

What You Should Do

It's important to speak with your healthcare provider to create a medication management plan for hot weather.

They can review your medication list, explain possible heat-related side effects, and make adjustments if necessary.

According to the CDC, if a medication may cause skin-related side effects during hot weather, your healthcare provider may recommend sun avoidance, protective clothing, hats, and broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Do not stop, skip, or change any medications without first consulting your healthcare provider.

Before your appointment, prepare a list of all medications you take. Include prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements, and any medications you only take as needed.

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