Summer Heat and Your Medications: What Every Patient Needs to Know

When temperatures rise, most people think about hydration and sun safety. But summer heat can also affect your medications. High temperatures may damage certain medications, and some prescriptions can make it harder for your body to stay cool and hydrated.

Store Medications Properly

Proper storage is important year-round, but especially during summer.

“Most medications should be stored in a cool, dry location away from children and pets. Whenever possible, keep them in their original containers, which are designed to help protect them from environmental conditions,” says Brittany Sturgeon, ambulatory pharmacy manager at CoxHealth.

Heat, humidity, and sunlight can reduce a medication’s effectiveness. Good storage options include dresser drawers or cabinets away from heat sources. Bathrooms are less ideal because fluctuating temperature and humidity can affect medication stability.

Be Careful When Traveling

Leaving medications in a vehicle can expose them to extreme temperatures.

“Most medications are intended to be stored at room temperature, generally between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. During the summer, the inside of a parked vehicle can quickly reach temperatures between 120 and 160 degrees,” Brittany says.

Heat can reduce effectiveness and create safety concerns for inhalers and other aerosol medications.

“A simple rule of thumb is that if the temperature feels uncomfortable for you, it’s probably uncomfortable for your medications, too,” says Brittany.

Take extra care with medications such as insulin, EpiPens, and inhalers. Keep them accessible, but avoid storing them in vehicles for extended periods.

Some Medications Increase Heat Sensitivity

Certain medications, including diuretics, blood pressure medications, and some mental health medications, can make it harder for the body to regulate temperature and stay hydrated.

This doesn’t mean the medications are unsafe, but patients should be aware of increased heat-related risks and take precautions during hot weather.

Know the Warning Signs

Watch for symptoms such as dizziness, reduced thirst, decreased sweating, confusion, or changes in thinking.

Listen to your body and take action if something feels off.

If you experience concerning symptoms, contact your pharmacist or health care provider.

Never Stop a Medication on Your Own

If you’re concerned about how heat may affect your medications, don’t make changes without medical advice.

“It can’t be overemphasized that it can be very dangerous to stop a medicine. If you have a question, talk with either your pharmacist or your doctor before stopping the medication,” Brian says.