Florida · Heat and sun
Florida heat and your medications
Florida's long, humid summers are hard on the body and on the medicine cabinet. Here's what to watch for and when to get help.
Medicines that make heat riskier
- Water pills (diuretics) such as hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone and furosemide add to fluid loss
- SGLT2 inhibitors (Jardiance, Farxiga) pull extra water out with sugar
- ACE inhibitors and ARBs can strain the kidneys when you are dehydrated
- Beta-blockers such as metoprolol can blunt the heart's response to heat
- Anticholinergic medicines (oxybutynin, diphenhydramine and some others) reduce sweating
- Some antidepressants and antipsychotics affect temperature control; lithium levels rise with dehydration
Medicines that make skin burn faster
Hydrochlorothiazide, doxycycline and some other antibiotics, sulfa drugs, some acne treatments such as tretinoin, and certain other medicines increase sun sensitivity. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen, a hat and shade, and ask your pharmacist whether your medicines are on the list.
Heat damages medicines and supplies
- Most pills are labeled for storage at room temperature. A closed car in a Florida summer gets far hotter than that within minutes
- Insulin and GLP-1 pens are especially sensitive. Use an insulated bag
- Inhalers are pressurized and shouldn't be left in a hot car or direct sun
- Glucose test strips can give wrong readings after heat or humidity exposure. Keep the vial closed
Know the warning signs
Heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, cold clammy skin, dizziness, nausea, headache, weakness. Move somewhere cool, loosen clothing and sip water.
Heat stroke is an emergency: a very high body temperature, hot red skin that may be dry, confusion, slurred speech or passing out. Call 911 and cool the person while you wait.
A sick-day plan
If you're vomiting, have diarrhea or can't keep fluids down, some medicines, such as metformin, SGLT2 inhibitors, diuretics, ACE inhibitors and ARBs, are sometimes paused briefly. Don't decide on your own: ask your clinician or pharmacist ahead of time what your plan should be, and write it down.
Common questions
Should I stop my water pill in the summer?
Not on your own. Many people need it year-round. Drink fluids, and ask your clinician what to do if you're vomiting, have diarrhea or feel faint.
Is it OK to leave my medications in the car in Florida?
No. A parked car in Florida heats up quickly to temperatures that can damage pills, inhalers, insulin and test strips. Keep them with you or in an insulated bag.
Does heat affect blood sugar testing?
Yes. Heat and humidity can damage test strips and meters and give false readings. Store them at room temperature in their closed container.