Summer versus medication: what you can and cannot take in hot weather

Extremely high temperatures not only cause intense thirst, but also pose specific, often underestimated risks to people undergoing medical treatment. During periods of extreme weather, the effects of certain medicines can change significantly, triggering unexpected reactions in the body.

Certain medicines can exacerbate physiological dehydration or directly disrupt the body’s natural thermoregulatory mechanisms. Consequently, older people, patients with chronic conditions, and those taking several medicines at once are at increased risk. Furthermore, certain classes of medication, in particular antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs and antidepressants, increase the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation. This property can lead to severe dermatological reactions even after brief exposure to the sun.

The Luxembourg Health Authority strongly advises patients not to discontinue or alter their prescribed treatment under any circumstances without first consulting a doctor. During periods of extreme heat, the relevant authorities particularly caution against any form of self-medication.

At the same time, experts emphasise the importance of strictly adhering to the storage conditions for medicines. Exceeding the permissible temperature limits may lead to changes in the chemical structure of the medicines and a loss of their pharmacological efficacy. If patients have any doubts regarding the safety of their current course of treatment or the storage standards for medicines, they should immediately seek professional advice from their doctor or pharmacist.