Common medications that can increase risk of dehydration during intense heatwave (here's what to do)

During intense heat waves, certain medications can increase the risk of dehydration, posing significant health risks, particularly for those with chronic conditions or the elderly. Understanding these medications and knowing how to manage their effects can help mitigate the dangers associated with high temperatures.
"Dehydration can be caused by a variety of medications , including diuretics and blood pressure medications.Alcohol drinking exacerbates the danger. As a result, during periods of excessive heat, it is critical to check all drugs consumed. If you are taking any medications, particularly diuretics or blood pressure meds, please see your cardiologist to see if any adjustments are required due to the weather circumstances," says Dr. Sanjeev Chaudhary, Clinical Director- Cardiology, Marengo Asia Hospital Gurugram. "Diuretics are one of the most prevalent medications that cause dehydration. These drugs boost urine production, resulting in more frequent urination. Many cardiac patients are taking diuretics to assist lower the workload on the heart when it is not functioning properly. During strong heat waves, these patients must contact their doctors about the proper amount of diuretics," he has a message for those who are on diuretics.
Diuretics: Often prescribed for hypertension, heart failure, and edema, diuretics (such as furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, and spironolactone) promote fluid excretion from the body. During a heatwave, the increased fluid loss from sweating combined with the diuretic effect can lead to severe dehydration.
Antihypertensives: Medications like ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril), ARBs (e.g., losartan), and beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol) help manage high blood pressure but can also reduce the body's ability to regulate temperature, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants, particularly tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline) and SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine), can affect the body's heat regulation mechanisms, making individuals more prone to overheating and dehydration.
Antipsychotics: Medications such as haloperidol and risperidone can impair the body’s ability to sweat and cool down, increasing the risk of heatstroke and dehydration.
Anticholinergics: Drugs used for various conditions, including overactive bladder (e.g., oxybutynin), respiratory conditions (e.g., ipratropium), and Parkinson’s disease (e.g., benztropine), reduce sweating, making it harder for the body to cool down during high temperatures.
Laxatives: Overuse of laxatives, whether for constipation or weight loss, can lead to significant fluid loss, increasing the risk of dehydration during a heatwave.
Anti-diabetic medications: Some medications for diabetes, like metformin, can affect hydration status and, when combined with the increased risk of dehydration during a heatwave, can complicate blood glucose management.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Common pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen can affect kidney function and fluid balance, making dehydration more likely during extreme heat.