Heatwave warning over medications that can pose risk to public - list in full

Heatwave warning over medications that can pose risk to public - list in full Temperatures could soar to 36C as a fifth heatwave batters parts of the UK this year - the government had put out a warning to people who take medication A warning has been put out to people who take certain medications in the UK as the nation braces for a fifth heatwave already in 2026. Temperatures are expected to reach up to 33C in parts of the UK on Sunday with the mercury set to rise further into the week. Yellow heat health alerts have already been put out but the public has also been warned of the risks when taking certain medications in this heat - with both prescription and over-the-counter meds. The government revealed some treatments can make it harder for the body to regulate temperature, stay hydrated or cope with sun during these conditions. This warning follows advice from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) 'Summer-proof your health' campaign. Below are examples of medicines that can affect your body during the heatwave. Medications that affect the body's temperature MHRA Chief Safety Officer, Dr Alison Cave, said diuretics - which are often prescribed by doctors for blood pressure or heart conditions - can increase fluid loss in the body. Dr Cave explained that this could lead people to becoming more dehydrated. Some antidepressants and antipsychotics could also impact how the body regulates temperature because some medications, like beta blockers, can reduce how the body responds to heat stress. Medications that can lead to sun sensitivity Other medications can also affect how the body reacts to the sun and make it more sensitive to sunlight. Common painkillers, including ibuprofen and naproxen, can increase sun sensitivity. Examples of treatments that do this are: certain antibiotics such as doxycycline and tetracycline, acne treatments like isotretinoin and topical retinoids; and antifungal medicines such as voriconazole. Other examples of medication that can make the body more sensitive to sunlight include Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate and azathioprine. These are often used to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and lupus. How can people reduce the risk? Dr Cave said: "Staying hydrated, avoiding the strongest sun during the middle of the day, and using protective clothing and sunscreen can all help reduce risk. " People have also been advised to check the information leaflet with their medication for advice and have been told to no stop taking an prescriptions meds without advice from doctors or pharmacists. The public should also look out for signs that the body is struggling in the heat. These include: dizziness, headaches, unusual fatigue, confusion or reduced urination. This week, the south and south-eastern parts of the UK could see temperatures climb into the 30s, potentially reaching up to 33C in the South East, the Met Office said. The weather agency added that heatwave conditions will likely return next week, with a high of 36C expected in parts of East Anglia and south-east England by Thursday.