Medicines and heat, pay attention to doses and storage

Oversights such as leaving medicine in the car or taking a drug before exposing yourself to the sun can have serious consequences. Similarly, those undergoing therapy could be more exposed to dehydration or drops in blood pressure related to the heat, but also to skin rashes. High temperatures, in fact, can alter the efficacy and safety of many medicines, such as those for anxiety, hypertension, Parkinson's and antibiotics, influencing their mechanism of action. The Italian Medicines Agency warns, with a handbook on social media and an in-depth article on the portal, suggesting useful advice for those taking therapies. Some active ingredients can compromise the body's ability to regulate body temperature or increase the risk of dehydration, causing even serious side effects. "In extreme cases, and only on the advice of a doctor, a remodulation of the therapy can be evaluated", clarifies Aifa, which then goes on to list the individual cases. Antihistamines, for example, can hinder sweating. Antipsychotics and antidepressants, as well as antiparkinsonian drugs, can lower blood pressure. Anxiolytics and muscle relaxants can worsen the feeling of fatigue, cause dizziness or aggravate breathing problems. Beta-blockers and vasodilators can affect the body's ability to dissipate heat, increasing the risk of hypotension and dehydration. Diuretics can contribute to excessive loss of fluids and electrolytes. Another recommendation concerns photosensitivity skin reactions: antibiotics, topical anti-inflammatories and corticosteroids can cause skin rashes or erythema when combined with exposure to UV rays. "If you take these medicines you must protect yourself with sunscreen and light clothing". In addition to managing the therapy, another important aspect concerns correct storage. High temperatures can, in fact, modify the chemical-physical stability of many molecules, making them ineffective or even dangerous. In particular, insulin, hormones or vaccines must be stored at controlled temperatures, often between 2 and 8 °C. In summer, never leave medications in the car or under the sun. When traveling, it is advisable to use cooler bags or thermal containers. On the plane, essential medications should be kept in hand luggage, along with the medical prescription. If a medication changes color, smell or consistency, it is important not to take it. When possible, it is better to "prefer tablets or capsules over liquid solutions", because they are more stable at high temperatures. Finally, it is good practice to "always keep medications in their original packaging, which offers protection from light and humidity, and includes all useful information".