As the UK faces an unprecedented heatwave, the Royal College of Pharmacy (RCP) has issued a crucial warning for individuals taking certain medications. Both the Met Office and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have declared red-level alerts for extreme temperatures, emphasizing the need for heightened caution.
Many may be unaware that some drugs—such as antibiotics, antidepressants, and oral contraceptives—can increase sensitivity to sunlight or impair the body’s temperature regulation. These effects heighten the risk of sunburn, skin rashes, dehydration, and heat-related illnesses during hot weather.
A spokesperson from the RCP explained, “Certain prescription and over-the-counter medicines can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of burning, rashes, or other skin reactions. This includes medicines like doxycycline, ciprofloxacin, fluoxetine, citalopram, and sertraline, as well as oral contraceptives. However, not everyone will experience these effects.”
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They also cautioned, “Some medications can interfere with your body’s ability to regulate temperature, raising the risk of dehydration or heat exhaustion. If you’re unsure about how your medicines might be affected, pharmacists are well placed to advise.”
The RCP stresses the importance of proper medication storage during heatwaves: “Heat can reduce the effectiveness of medicines. Always store your medications in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and follow any instructions on the packaging or patient leaflets.”
Tase Oputu, President of the Royal College of Pharmacy, emphasized that “While not everyone will experience adverse effects, awareness and sensible precautions during hot weather are vital. Continue taking your medicines as prescribed, and don’t hesitate to consult pharmacists if you have any concerns about your treatment or how heat might affect it.”
Sarah Bird, Lead Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, reinforced the serious nature of the heatwave: “A red heat health alert signals a threat to life, even among healthy individuals. Simple steps such as staying hydrated, avoiding peak sun hours, and keeping homes cool can prevent heat-related illnesses. It’s also essential to check on vulnerable people, including the elderly and those with health conditions.”
Rhysa Phommachanh, Health Specialist at Landys Chemist, offered practical advice: “Most medications should be kept in cool, dry environments. Avoid leaving them in hot cars, direct sunlight, or humid bathrooms, as heat can degrade their effectiveness. If your medicine changes in color, smell, or texture, consult a pharmacist immediately. Remember to stay hydrated, use high-factor sunscreen, and follow all storage and usage guidelines.”
In summary, individuals taking medicines like tetracyclines, SSRIs, and contraceptives should exercise increased vigilance during this extreme heatwave to maintain their health and the efficacy of their treatments.