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Older Americans already face a higher risk of heat-related illness, but doctors say that risk can be even greater for people taking certain prescription medications.

Many of the drugs commonly prescribed to older adults — including medications for high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, and overactive bladder — can affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature or stay hydrated. During a heat wave, that combination can increase the risk of heat exhaustion or even heat stroke.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises patients and healthcare providers to pay close attention to how medications and extreme heat can interact, especially during prolonged periods of high temperatures. Older adults are among the groups most vulnerable to dangerous heat-related illnesses.

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Medications that deserve extra attention

Some of the most commonly prescribed medications for seniors can increase heat-related risks, including:

• Diuretics (water pills): These medications help remove excess fluid from the body but can also increase the risk of dehydration during hot weather.
• Blood pressure medications: ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) may affect the body’s fluid balance, making dehydration more likely.
• Anticholinergic medications: Often prescribed for overactive bladder, allergies, and Parkinson’s disease, these drugs can reduce sweating, making it harder for the body to cool itself.
• Certain antidepressants and antipsychotic medications: These medicines can interfere with the body’s normal temperature regulation.

Not everyone taking these medications will experience problems, but doctors say it’s important to be aware of the potential risks.

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Heat can damage some medications, too

Summer heat can also affect the medications themselves.

Insulin and some injectable medications must be kept refrigerated. Even pills and capsules can lose their effectiveness if they’re left in a hot car or stored in direct sunlight for long periods.

Pharmacists recommend storing medications according to the directions on the label and checking with a pharmacist if you’re unsure how heat might affect a particular prescription.

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How to protect yourself

Doctors emphasize one point above all else: Do not stop taking a prescribed medication without talking to your healthcare provider. Suddenly stopping some medications can be dangerous.

Instead, experts recommend these simple precautions during hot weather:

• Drink plenty of water unless your doctor has told you to limit fluids.
• Spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned places when temperatures are extreme.
• Wear lightweight clothing and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
• Store medications in a cool, dry place — not in a parked car or on a sunny windowsill.
• Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether any of your medications increase your risk during extreme heat and whether you should take any additional precautions.

If you experience dizziness, confusion, weakness, a rapid heartbeat, fainting, or signs of heat exhaustion, seek medical care right away.

As heat waves become more frequent across the country, taking a few extra precautions can help older adults stay safe without interrupting the medications they depend on to stay healthy.