Doctors have warned people on certain mental health medications to take extra precautions as hotter temperatures are expected to return to Britain this weekend.
These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the most widely prescribed class of antidepressants in the UK, as well as some antipsychotics.
Dr Nick Broughton, NHS England’s national director for mental health, learning disabilities and autism, said: “People taking antipsychotic medication and antidepressants need to be extra cautious during hot weather because some of these medicines can make it harder to keep the body cool.
“So, it’s vital that anyone taking medication for their mental health needs should take extra care by keeping out of the sun where possible, drinking plenty of fluids and following any advice from their healthcare professional.
“Most importantly, they should not stop taking their medication suddenly and can speak to their GP, pharmacist or mental health team for advice if they need to.”
Temperatures are set to rise to 29C by Saturday, and the Met Office said the heat could last for up to 10 days, which would make it the UK’s third heatwave this year.
Last month was the warmest June for England on record, with a temperature of 37.7C on 26 June in Lingwood, Norfolk.
Further heat health alerts have been issued for this weekend, and NHS web pages have seen a significant surge in traffic as Britons search for advice on managing the heat.
People on some antidepressants and antipsychotics may struggle with feeling hotter than usual, dizziness, nausea, headaches, or tiredness. This can leave them more prone to experiencing dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
Professor Victoria Tzortziou Brown, president of the Royal College of GPs, explained why: “Some antidepressants, including SSRIs, can affect how the body regulates temperature, sweating and hydration.”
The past heatwaves have already hit those on medication particularly hard.
Magda Kanecka, 22, told The Independent: “I’m currently on both antidepressants and antipsychotics.
“As a competitive cheerleader, I’m outdoors a lot, and I’ve definitely been impacted by this weather – I experienced severe heat exhaustion during the last heatwave.”
She described feeling like she was “on the verge of passing out” and sleeping for hours even when she wasn’t tired.
“When it’s this hot, just doing something as simple as reaching for a water bottle can make me feel really dizzy or give me a really strong migraine-like pain in my temples,” she added.
“It’s been so much more intense this summer, just because it’s been so much hotter.”
Ms Kanecka said she has learnt how to cope with managing the heat as she has been on the medication for several years.
But she urged people new to the treatment to be aware of the risks: “A lot of people aren’t informed on how the temperature can affect you so much.”
MIND UK, a leading mental health charity, offered some advice on how to manage heat intolerance while on medication. It suggests hydrating regularly, avoiding the midday sun, and wearing loose, breathable clothing.
Dr Daniel Harwood, a director at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, urged patients not to stop taking their medication abruptly.
He said: "Issues with heat-management do not mean the medications are unsafe to take. It is important to keep taking them as prescribed, and if you have any problems, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.”
You can find further advice on managing the heat while on medication here.
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