Scorching heat, beware of drugs, the AIFA vademecum: what you need to know

The scorching heat , like the one we are experiencing these days, can alter the efficacy and safety of many drugs . Therefore, it is good to know how and what to do by following the Aifa vademecum .

Heat and drugs: what do you need to know? Here is the AIFA vademecum

High temperatures can alter the effectiveness and safety of many medications , such as those for anxiety, hypertension, Parkinson's and antibiotics, by influencing their mechanism of action.

The Italian Medicines Agency is warning, with a handbook on social media and an in-depth article on its portal, providing useful information for those who follow therapies and take medications even in the summer.

Side effects

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 therapy may be considered ," says Aifa, listing individual cases.

Use and effects of individual drugs

Antihistamines can inhibit sweating. Antipsychotics and antidepressants , as well as antiparkinsonian drugs, can lower blood pressure. Anxiolytics and muscle relaxants can further increase fatigue, cause dizziness, or worsen 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. Skin reactions from photosensitivity are also recommended: antibiotics, topical anti-inflammatories and corticosteroids can cause skin rashes or erythema when combined with exposure to UV rays.

The conservation

“If you take these medicines, you need to protect yourself with sunscreen and light clothing,” reminds AIFA . Preserving medicines is essential in hot weather . High temperatures can, in fact, alter 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 medicines in the car or under the sun. When travelling, it is advisable to use cooler bags or thermal containers. On the plane, essential medicines must be kept in hand luggage, along with the doctor's prescription.

If a medicine changes color, smell or consistency, it is important not to take it. When possible, it is better to “ prefer tablets or capsules rather than liquid solutions” , because they are more stable at high temperatures. Finally, it is good to “always store medicines in their original packaging, which offers protection from light and humidity, and includes all useful information”.