If you use anti-depressants, you may be at greater risk for experiencing heat exhaustion.
With summer just around the corner, this potential side effect among some of the most commonly prescribed anti-depressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), should be on your radar, says Erin Uhlmeyer, PharmD, BCPS, Nebraska Medicine pharmacy specialist.
Here’s why:
“Some anti-depressants may have an effect on the body’s ability to effectively regulate its own temperature.” says Dr. Uhlmeyer. “The inability to regulate body temperature during the summer is very serious as overheating can lead to heat exhaustion and possibly heat stroke which can be life-threatening.”
Additionally, depression in the US is on the rise, especially among younger adults. A study in the American Academy of Pediatrics found that antidepressant prescriptions for teens and young adults have increased by more than 60% since 2020.
Side effects of anti-depressants during the summer
If you exercise vigorously or spend extended time outside during the summer months, be aware that certain antidepressants may:
- Inhibit the body’s ability to regulate internal body temperature.
- Decrease sweat production, preventing the body from cooling itself.
- Increase sweat production, increasing the risk of dehydration.
- Amplify the skin’s sensitivity to UV rays, increasing the risk of sunburn.
Tips to reduce heat-related side effects
To help reduce your risk of heat-related side effects, Dr. Uhlmeyer recommends:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Reduce sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day.
- Use sunscreen and reapply throughout the day if spending time outside.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Avoid exercising outside during the hottest part of the day.
Also be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Nebraska’s high humidity levels can make heat exhaustion more likely, even at lower temperatures. And once you’ve experienced heat exhaustion, you are more prone to getting it again — so it is important to stay out of extreme heat for about a week after an episode.
Signs of heat exhaustion
Symptoms can develop swiftly and include:
- Hot, moist, flushed skin.
- Heavy sweating.
- Faintness.
- Weak or rapid pulse.
- Low blood pressure.
- Nausea.
- Low-grade fever.
- Headache.
- Dark-colored urine.
Signs of heat stroke
If heat exhaustion progresses to heat stroke, symptoms may include:
- Increased core body temperature
- Brain dysfunction, confusion and delirium.
- Hot, dry skin
- Behavior changes like agitation or aggression.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Seizures.
- Loss of consciousness.
Other common side effects of anti-depressants
Most side effects of antidepressants are mild and go away within a few weeks. These include:
- Abdominal pain.
- Nausea.
- Diarrhea.
- Agitation.
- Jitteriness.
- Headaches.
- Sleep changes.
Experiencing signs of depression?
Call 800.922.0000 to schedule an appointment with one of our mental health specialists.
