Be careful of where you leave your medicine (Image: Getty Images)
Brits have been basking in the sunshine as the Met Office confirmed the hottest day of the year. With temperatures surging above 30C in some areas of the UK, it’s never been more important to take extra caution.
Anyone who takes medication must be wary of where it’s stored as leaving it in the wrong place can cause it to lose its effect. Certain tablets can also increase the risk of sunburn, dizziness and dehydration during hot weather.
Now an expert from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued an urgent warning in response to the sweltering conditions.
Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer at the MHRA, stressed that medication should never be left in the car, a bag, or on a sun-drenched windowsill.
She said: “Let’s face it – when there’s a heatwave, most of us are focused on getting outside and enjoying it while it lasts.
“But it’s easy to forget that medicines left in the heat – in cars, bags, or on sunny windowsills – might not work properly when you need them.”
She further cautioned that neglecting this advice could lead to far more serious consequences.
Alison added: “Some medicines can also make you more likely to burn in the sun, feel dizzy, or get dehydrated, especially if you’re taking diuretics or have a condition like asthma, heart disease, or diabetes.”
How to stay safe in the heat:
- Store medicines somewhere cool, dry and out of direct sunlight – especially if you’re out and about
- Know the signs of heat-related illness – stay hydrated and listen to your body
- Take extra care in the sun if your medicine makes your skin more likely to burn
Alison concluded: “And remember, for all medicines it’s important to read the leaflet and speak to a healthcare professional if you have any questions.”
Meanwhile, a pharmacist boasting more than 35 years of experience has also issued a stark warning about taking medication during the heatwave.
Raj Rohilla highlighted 5 medicine groups affected by the heat, including antidepressants, heart and diabetes medications, while also outlining the key warning signs to watch out for.
Warning signs to look out for:
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Fainting
- Excessive sweating or not sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
- Weakness
- Severe thirst
- Shakiness
- Low blood sugar symptoms
Guidance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has further cautioned that adults should act swiftly upon noticing any signs of dehydration or heatstroke.
It said: “Dehydration can cause dizziness, headaches, tiredness, confusion, and dark urine. This is particularly dangerous for older adults, young children, and people with heart or kidney conditions.
“If you start to feel unwell in the heat, move somewhere cooler, sip water slowly, and seek medical advice if you don’t feel better quickly.”
Should you experience any unusual symptoms while taking medication, it is essential to seek professional guidance without delay.
Visit your nearest pharmacy, but be sure to check opening times in advance, as some may be operating on reduced hours over the bank holiday period.
