As the temperatures climb and summer routines shift, so do your body’s needs—especially if you take daily medication. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or taking a short-term prescription, understanding how heat and humidity impact your medicine is an important part of staying healthy.
At APG Health, serving Downtown Orlando, with a new location coming soon in Heathrow, we regularly advise patients on medication safety during the warmer months. Let’s walk through what you need to know to keep your prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and supplements effective and safe this summer.
How Heat Affects Medications
Many medications can increase your body’s sensitivity to sun exposure or impair how your body regulates temperature. When it’s extremely hot, these effects can heighten your risk for dehydration, dizziness, fatigue, or more serious reactions.
Additionally, medications left in high temperatures (such as in a hot car or a beach bag) may lose potency or become unsafe to use. Most prescriptions are designed to be stored at room temperature, ideally in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Common medication concerns in summer include:
- Sun sensitivity: Some antibiotics, antidepressants, and anti-inflammatories can increase your risk of sunburn.
- Fluid regulation: Diuretics and certain blood pressure medications, such as beta blockers, can affect how your body retains fluids and responds to heat.
- Reduced blood flow: Heat already dilates blood vessels; medications that further reduce blood flow can lead to lightheadedness or fainting in high temperatures.
Safe Summer Storage Tips
To maintain the effectiveness of your medication, it’s important to handle and store them properly, even when you're on the go.
1. Never leave medications in a hot car
Temperatures inside vehicles can exceed 120°F quickly. This heat can degrade many medications, making them less effective or unsafe.
2. Keep meds in original containers
The bottles are designed to protect the drug from moisture and light. Store them in a cool, dry cabinet or drawer—not in a steamy bathroom.
3. Use travel-safe packaging
If you’re traveling with medications, use insulated pouches or travel organizers with cold packs if needed (especially for refrigerated prescriptions).
4. Double-check expiration dates
Heat can sometimes accelerate drug degradation, so check labels before heading out on vacation.
Watch for Summer-Specific Side Effects
Some side effects may be amplified by summer heat. Be mindful of these potential side effects when you’re spending time outside:
- Increased fatigue or sluggishness
- Unusual sweating or dizziness
- Skin rashes or sunburns (especially with sun sensitivity medications)
- Nausea or dehydration
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult with your primary care provider or mental health clinician. It may be time to adjust your dosage or switch medications.
Be Mindful with Supplements, Too
Just like prescription drugs, supplements and herbal remedies can interact with heat, sun, or other medications. For example:
- St. John’s Wort, used for mood support, increases sun sensitivity
- Some energy or weight-loss supplements can increase body temperature or heart rate
Always talk with your provider about any supplements you’re using, especially during summer months when your routines and exposures change.
Protective Strategies
If you’re on any medication known to affect how your body handles heat, take extra precautions:
- Drink plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty
- Avoid being outside during peak heat (typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Wear protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and lightweight long sleeves
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply regularly
When to Contact a Provider
Not sure whether your medications are safe in the heat? Concerned about side effects showing up when you’re trying to relax or travel?
This is the time to reach out. Your care team can help you:
- Review interactions between prescription medications, supplements, and sun exposure
- Adjust doses or recommend alternatives
- Discuss safe traveling with medications tips
- Manage medication timing around changing routines
Final Thoughts
Summer is a time to recharge, not feel sidelined by unexpected symptoms or complications. With the right information and a few preventive measures, you can stay safe, feel your best, and protect your medications no matter how high the mercury climbs.
Need guidance on safe medication use this summer? Contact APG Health today to speak with a provider in Orlando, Ocoee, or Winter Park. We’re here to support your mental and physical well-being year-round.