Common Medications That Increase Heat Risk

A heatwave is pressing down across Indiana, and with it, the heat index is climbing into triple digits. This can mean bad news for those of us who take prescription medication.

Extreme Heat Advisory in Effect Across Indiana

According to the Warrick County Emergency Management Agency, a Heat Advisory will remain in effect until 7 pm on Friday, June 27, 2025. The heat index could reach 100-107 degrees, and the agency warns residents to take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses, especially heat stroke, which can be life-threatening.

This means staying hydrated, staying indoors, or taking frequent breaks in the shade if you do have to be outdoors. What you may not realize is that the medicines you take could make you more prone to have an adverse experience with the higher temperatures.

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Why Prescription Medications Increase Heat Risk

According to data shared by Civic Science, nearly 70% of American adults take one prescription medication every day, and shockingly, more than 25% are taking four or more prescription medications daily. Unfortunately, with the extreme heat that we are experiencing, we have to be careful.

Many medications, including over the counter medications, can impair heat tolerance and the body's ability to regulate its temperature, which can predispose people to heat illness during hot days. Medications can decrease the ability to sweat, and therefore to cool, through limiting the dilation of blood vessels in the skin that can release heat or through affecting the body's ability to control its temperature. Medications, including certain antibiotics, can increase sensitivity of the skin to the sun, and direct heat can degrade or damage certain medications, such as insulin or inhalers.- CDC

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Some of the common medications prescribed as treatment for things like high blood pressure, depression, and ADHD can actually lower the body's ability to tolerate heat, creating a very real danger.

Millions Take Medications That May Impact Heat Tolerance

More than 119 million Americans, or nearly half the population, suffer from hypertension, or high blood pressure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Of those, about 61.4 million take prescription medications to manage it. The American Heart Association says there are several different types of blood pressure medications, including diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and more.

High blood pressure isn't the only ailment Americans are treating with prescription medications. According to Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) data, 16.5 million Americans were prescribed stimulant medications for ADHD in 2023, marking a significant increase of 48% from 2012. Likewise, in 2023, the CDC reports that approximately 11.4% of the adult population, or roughly 29.6 million Americans, took prescription medication to treat depression.

How the Body Regulates Temperature — Until Meds Get in the Way

With statistics like that, it's easy to assume you or someone you know takes a daily prescription medication of some kind, and they may even be at risk of heat intolerance without even knowing it. Many medications impact the body's thermoregulation system.

Thermoregulation is a neurobiological network of endocrine, central nervous system, autonomic and somatosensory responses that controls our body temperature, among other things. - Psychology Today

Some medications may cause more sweating, while others may prohibit the body's ability to sweat. Some medications can cause electrolyte imbalances and even make you feel less thirsty, making it more challenging to stay well hydrated. Other prescription drugs can even cause cognitive impairment when mixed with high temperatures.

Your Medication Could Put You at Increased Risk

Statistically, you or someone you know may be taking a medication that can make you more susceptible to heat intolerance. While not fully comprehensive, we have put together a list of some of the most commonly prescribed medications that can make you more sensitive to the heat.

Biserka Stojanovic

Medications That Can Impair Heat Tolerance

Cardiovascular Medications and Antihypertensives: These medications can cause electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, risk of fainting and falling, decreased thirst, and decreased sweating.

Diuretics
Beta Blockers
Calcium Channel Blockers
ACE Inhibitors
ARBs
ARNIs

Psychiatric Medications: These medications can cause electrolyte imbalance, increase the risk of fainting and falls, increased sweating, decreased sweating, and impaired body temperature.

Mood Stabilizers
Antipsychotics
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
SNRIs (Selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)
TCAs (Tricyclic Antidepressants)

Analgesics: These medications can lead to kidney injury if dehydrated, and liver injury

NSAIDs
Aspirin
Acetaminophen

Additional medications that can cause issues with heat tolerance include:

Stimulants
Anti-platelet Medications
Nitrates
Antiseizure medications
Certain Antihistamines
Certain Antibiotics and Antivirals
Certain Thyroid replacement medications

Additionally, the consumption of other substances like alcohol and some hallucinogens can also increase the risk of heat-related illness. You can see a list of specific medications (by name) by visiting the CDC website.

It is important to note that you should take your prescription medication exactly as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions or concerns about your medications, contact your healthcare provider.

Protect Yourself During Extreme Heat

The experts at Mount Sinai Hospital say that you can prevent heat-related illness by drinking plenty of fluids, limiting your time outdoors, and ensuring that inside temperatures are a comfortable level.

If you suspect you or someone you know may be experiencing heat stroke, the Mayo Clinic says you should contact 911 immediately.

Tip to Protect Pets from Summer Heat

With heat advisories in effect for a large portion of the country, now is the time to ensure you are prepared to keep your pets safe from the summer heat.

Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals