As the global temperatures continue to rise and extreme heatwaves become the new normal, the attention turns to a unexpected but critical health factor: how your prescription medications might be making the summer heat even more intolerable. While everyone knows to drink plenty of water and steer clear of the outdoors during the hottest part of the day, few recognize that prescriptions might be combating their body's cooling mechanisms.

For millions, dealing with the heat is more than a comfort issue—it's a health emergency, particularly for those on certain prescription medications. While dehydration, shade, and sunscreen are important, a lesser-known risk is from the medicine cabinet. Many medications regularly prescribed to millions of Americans can disrupt the body's natural cooling system, making it more difficult to cool down and heighten the risk of heat illness

Millions of Americans, especially those experiencing scorching heat domes in the eastern U.S., are more susceptible to heat illnesses. For those on medications that disrupt thermoregulation, the risks are even greater.

How the Body Regulates Heat?

The human body depends on a number of sensitive mechanisms to keep its internal temperature within a safe range. Sweating, blood flow to the skin, and sensitive fluid balance all dissipate heat. But certain drugs interfere with these mechanisms by changing the production of sweat, the way the blood circulates, or thirst and fluid retention. The consequence: a higher risk of overheating, dehydration, and potentially life-threatening heatstroke.

How Medication Undermines Body's Ability to Withstand Heat?

Below are five popular types of medications that disrupt your heat tolerance, and how you can get around them.

1. Antidepressants

Antidepressants, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), are the most widely used medicines globally. Antidepressants act by modulating neurotransmitter levels in the brain, primarily serotonin and noradrenaline. They do affect other systems that regulate body temperature as well.

TCAs, for instance, can block acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential to sweating. This can result in diminished sweat, and the body is less able to cool itself on warm days. Ironically, both SSRIs and TCAs have the opposite effect on some users as well—up to 14% report this side effect—and stimulate sweat glands through excessive noradrenaline. This excessive sweating can contribute to dehydration if fluids aren't replenished.

In addition, SSRIs can interfere with the hypothalamus, the thermostat of the brain, and cause the signal to initiate sweating to be interrupted. Any disruption in sweating—either too much or too little—will make the body less able to deal with heat, increasing the danger of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

2. Antipsychotics

Antipsychotic medication, prescribed to patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, can also increase the danger of summer heat. They block dopamine, which has a side effect of impacting serotonin and interfering with the hypothalamus's function of detecting and responding to changes in temperature.

Individuals on antipsychotics can be as non-heated and non-thirsty as possible when their bodies are under pressure. This can cause plummeting blood pressure and impaired cardiac function. The body adapts by vasoconstricting and holding onto heat, further diminishing the sweat and cooling capacity. Most antipsychotics are also anticholinergic, inhibiting acetylcholine and making sweating even more difficult.

3. Heart Drugs

Cardiovascular medications are another important category that can disrupt heat tolerance. Beta blockers, used in heart failure and arrhythmias, slow the heartbeat and decrease the strength of heart contractions. Although effective for heart disease, these actions can restrict blood flow to the skin, lessening the body's ability to dissipate heat.

Diuretics, which are often prescribed to manage high blood pressure and heart failure, boost urine production and lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances—both of which make it more difficult to sweat effectively. Other medications for high blood pressure, including ramipril and losartan, can suppress the body's natural thirst drive by interfering with the body's fluid balance mechanism, increasing the risk for dehydration in hot weather.

4. Stimulants

Stimulant drugs like amphetamines used for ADHD can raise body temperature, enhance metabolism, and distort patterns of sweat. These medications target dopamine and noradrenaline, which can make cooling down more difficult, particularly after physical exertion or in hot weather. Stimulants can also suppress feelings of fatigue, leading people to overwork without perceiving the risk.

Interestingly, some studies indicate that individuals with ADHD who use stimulants can have a reduced risk for heat-related illness, perhaps as a function of reduced body weight or improved hydration practices. More research is necessary to verify this effect.

5. Insulin and Diabetes Medications

For individuals with diabetes, control of blood sugar during heat is tough. High temperatures dilate blood vessels, enhancing blood flow and accelerating the absorption of insulin. This may result in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), with signs such as dizziness, perspiration, irritability, and even loss of consciousness or seizures.

Heat can also destroy insulin, reducing its effectiveness or rendering it dangerous. Insulin must be refrigerated until the time of use, and any alteration in color or cloudiness means it must be thrown away. Other diabetes medications, including sulfonylureas, may also predispose patients to sun sensitivity and dehydration.

How Are Medications and Sun Sensitivity Linked?

Aside from thermoregulation, various drugs heighten sensitivity to the sun. Antibiotics, antihistamines, oral contraceptives, and diabetes medications such as insulin may all augment the risk of heat reaction and sunburn. Always look for warnings regarding exposure to the sun on drug labels and take special precautions such as sunscreen and shade.

Outside of these five major categories, a number of other medications can make it more difficult to deal with the heat. Antibiotics, antihistamines, antifungals, and certain cholesterol-lowering statins all can raise sun sensitivity, increasing risk of sunburn or rash. Oral contraceptives and hormone therapies might also be expected to do the same.

Tip to Cope and Stay Cool This Summer

If you are on one of these medications, you do not have to endure summer. Begin by talking to your healthcare professional to learn your individual risk factors. Do not stop any prescribed drug without discussing with a doctor. Some major coping mechanisms include:

• Stay well hydrated unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
• Keep medications such as insulin and inhalers in a proper condition to continue being effective.
• Wear loose, light garments and broad-spectrum sunscreens.
• Avoid leaving your home during the 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. peak heat times.
• Watch for dizziness, confusion, nausea, or profuse sweating.

Does Heat Affect Mental Health?

Heat also affects mental health, whereas winter seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is more well-known, summer SAD may result from inadequate sleep and protracted heat exposure, aggravating depression and anxiety symptoms. Heat doesn't only impact the body—some individuals have summer-pattern seasonal affective disorder (SAD), with deteriorating depression or anxiety during extended, hot days. Inadequate sleep resulting from heat can also heighten these symptoms. Hydration, cooling down, and stress management practices such as deep breathing or meditation can assist with maintaining mental health during heat waves.

The Anxiety & Depression Association of America suggests staying hydrated, practicing mindfulness techniques for stress management, and getting proper rest. For individuals who are experiencing mental fatigue in the summer months, contacting a mental health professional is highly recommended.

As we endure increasingly hotter, longer summers, it is more important than ever to know how drugs interact with heat. From antidepressants to insulin, every drug has special risks related to thermoregulation, dehydration, and sun sensitivity.

For people on antidepressants, antipsychotics, cardiac medications, stimulants, or insulin, summer poses special challenges—but also the potential for proactive self-protection, see your physician or health care provider for further assistance.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your medication or health routine.

The US President Donald Trump's health has been a heated topic of debate ever since he has returned to the White House. The most speculated topic on his health comes from the dark bruise on his right hand. Now, a series of images, which is posted by his granddaughter has now revealed how long the President has had the discoloration on his hand.

These photos have now sparked a new set of questions on Trump's health, especially after Trump has be declared fit during his recent medical checkup.

Also Read: What Does Trump's Latest Health Checkup Reveal About Him?

What Did Kai Trump's Photo Reveal About Trump's Health?

His 18-year-old eldest granddaughter took to Instagram on Wednesday and posted a series of pictures to commemorate the anniversary of her YouTube journey. She wrote: "One year ago, I started my YouTube channel not knowing what to expect...and it is turned into something so special."

However, in one of the images, Kai is seen with Trump and the president had a thick layer of makeup on his hand that would cover the bruise. The image was taken on the day of the results at the watch party hosted by Trump at Mar-a-Lago. This proves that the President had this bruise that he covered with makeup much before he even took over the office.

This discovery made people believe that the White House is deliberately trying to hide the president's health issues for months, especially under the guise of his semi-annual health check that declared him fit.

When Was The First Time Trump's Bruise Was Noticed?

The bruise first came under public's eye soon after Trump was elected and he himself said in a TIME Magazine interview in December 2024, that this has happened due to frequently shaking hands with thousands of people.

Seconding the same, in 2025, the White House also used the same explanation, where his doctor Dr Sean Barbabella said that these bruises were "minor soft tissue irritation". The doctor also said that his has happened due to frequent handshaking by him and his use of aspirin as part of his normal heart health routine. The side effect of this, with his hand bruising like this was said to be a 'benign and well known" side effect.

In a memo published by White House, his physician noted: "consistent with minor soft tissue irritation from frequent handshaking and the use of aspirin, which is taken as part of a standard cardiovascular prevention regimen".

The medical report also noted that Trump's swollen ankles were caused by chronic venous insufficiency. This is a condition where veins find it difficult to send blood back to heart. The White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told the media that Trump was still "in exceptional health", while backing the physician's comment on his health.

Recent Update On Trump's Health

Previously, Health And Me reported on an exclusive published on tabloid Radar, on October 16, that claimed that Trump is 'riddled with arthritis', and that he may need a double hip replacement surgery.

Read: Is US President Donald Trump Getting A Double Hip Replacement Surgery?

The tabloid’s report paints a sensational picture of severe arthritis and an alleged plan for double hip replacement, citing unnamed “sources” and hinting at possible cognitive issues. The story has since been picked up by several aggregator sites, spreading widely despite the absence of verified evidence. However, the publication provided no medical records, surgeon's statements, or official documents to support the claim.

However, as per the physical examination by the Walter Reed National Medical Center, President had no orthopedic surgery listed in his history.

Health officials are urging people to seek immediate medical help if they notice three particular symptoms appearing alongside Covid, as these could signal a more serious infection.

According to the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Covid cases have dipped slightly but remain present at “low levels” across the country. Hospital admissions have also fallen modestly, with weekly test positivity dropping to 10.3 percent from 11.9 percent the week before.

Despite the decline, people aged 85 and older continue to face the greatest risk of being hospitalised with the virus. Experts stress that identifying certain warning symptoms early can be key to preventing complications and ensuring timely treatment.

3 Covid Symptoms That Are Major Warning

People are being urged to seek urgent medical advice if they or their child develop three specific symptoms while infected with Covid, as it may point to a more serious illness.

Health experts recommend contacting a GP or calling for medical assistance if symptoms such as a rash, loss of appetite, or unusual weakness appear. Immediate help is also advised if a high temperature of 38°C or above lasts for five days or fails to reduce with paracetamol.

Medical attention is further encouraged if symptoms worsen, show no improvement, or if you are unsure how to manage them. For infants, extra caution is necessary as any baby under three months old with a temperature of 38°C or higher, or a child aged three to six months with a temperature above 39°C, should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Covid Booster Shots: Who Can Get Them This Autumn

The eligibility rules for Covid booster vaccines have been updated for the current autumn rollout. While earlier boosters were offered to people aged 65 and above and those with certain long-term conditions, this year’s criteria have been made more specific.

Those eligible for the latest booster include:

• Adults aged 75 and over, including anyone who will turn 75 by January 31, 2026
• Individuals aged six months to 74 years with a weakened immune system due to illness or medical treatment
• Residents of care homes for older adults
• Health officials continue to encourage eligible groups to stay up to date with vaccinations, especially heading into the winter season, when respiratory infections tend to rise.

COVID-19 Variant Stratus: What You Should Know

A new COVID-19 strain known as Stratus, officially labeled XFG, has begun to circulate globally. First identified in Southeast Asia in January 2025, the variant quickly spread across 38 countries by mid-year. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified Stratus as a “variant under monitoring,” meaning it is being closely studied to understand its transmission rate, symptom pattern, and potential health impact.

Frankenstein Variant: Common Symptoms of Stratus

For most people, especially those who are vaccinated or boosted, Stratus infections appear to be mild to moderate. Still, recognising its symptoms early remains important.

The most common signs include:

• Persistent dry cough
• Tiredness or fatigue
• Fever
• Other possible symptoms:
• Shortness of breath or chest tightness
• Sore or scratchy throat
• Headache and body aches
• Upset stomach, nausea, or loss of appetite
• Loss of taste or smell (now less frequent)
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating

Atorvastatin Recall 2025: Statins have long been the first-line treatment for high cholesterol, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed a nationwide recall of over 140,000 bottles of a cholesterol-lowering medication. Officials flagged that some pills may not dissolve properly after ingestion, potentially reducing effectiveness for patients who rely on them daily.

The recall affects Atorvastatin Calcium, the generic version of Lipitor, which is taken by roughly 39 million Americans, most of them adults over 40, according to Dr. Tamanna Singh of the Cleveland Clinic. Federal records show that the recalled batches were manufactured by Alkem Laboratories and distributed by Ascend Laboratories in New Jersey. The FDA’s September 19 enforcement report found that several batches failed quality tests designed to ensure proper dissolution of the pills.

If the pills dissolve inconsistently or more slowly than intended, the medication may not deliver the expected cholesterol-lowering effect. The FDA classified the recall as a Class II action, indicating moderate concern. While temporary or reversible side effects could occur, the likelihood of serious harm is low.

Atorvastatin Recall: Which Atorvastatin Tablets Are Affected

The recall covers multiple strengths and bottle sizes of Atorvastatin Calcium Tablets, which are among the most commonly prescribed statins globally. Affected formulations include:

• 10 mg – 90, 500, and 1,000 tablets per bottle
• 20 mg – 90, 500, and 1,000 tablets per bottle
• 40 mg – 90, 500, and 1,000 tablets per bottle
• 80 mg – 90 and 500 tablets per bottle

Cholesterol Medication Recalled: Safe Alternatives to Atorvastatin

If you are affected by the recall, there are several alternatives to help manage cholesterol levels effectively:

1. Ezetimibe (Zetia)

Ezetimibe is often recommended when a statin alone doesn’t sufficiently lower cholesterol. It may be used if you are on the maximum statin dose but your cholesterol remains high, or alongside statins such as atorvastatin or simvastatin for conditions like homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.

Ezetimibe works by blocking cholesterol absorption in the small intestine, causing the body to use up more cholesterol from the blood. It is one of the few non-statin medications that can further reduce LDL cholesterol, either alone or combined with statins or other alternatives.

2. Fibrates (e.g., gemfibrozil, fenofibrate)

Fibrates mainly target high triglyceride levels, a type of fat in the blood linked to heart disease and pancreatitis, and can also mildly lower LDL cholesterol. They can be taken alone, with ezetimibe, or with a statin. However, combining gemfibrozil with a statin may increase side effects, so caution is advised.

3. Bile Acid Sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine, colestipol, colesevelam)

Bile acid sequestrants lower cholesterol by binding bile acids in the intestine, preventing their reabsorption. The liver then uses more cholesterol from the blood to produce new bile acids, reducing LDL cholesterol.

Potential drawbacks include:

• Multiple pills per day may be needed
• Possible interactions with other medications or vitamins, which can reduce effectiveness
• May increase triglyceride levels
• Can cause constipation or stomach upset