Doctor Warns SSRI Users of 40C Heatwave Risks Across Europe

3 articles · Updated · RSVP Live · Jun 19

Millions of people taking SSRIs such as sertraline, citalopram, escitalopram and fluoxetine were warned that summer heat can raise the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and potentially heatstroke.
Dr Rupa Parmar said the drugs can trigger excess sweating by affecting temperature regulation, lowering heat tolerance as western Europe heads for temperatures above 40C in Spain, Portugal and France.
She said heat exhaustion can bring headaches, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability and a raised temperature, while heatstroke adds confusion, seizures and rapid heart rate and breathing and needs urgent medical treatment.
Parmar advised SSRI users to drink at least 3 litres of water a day, avoid alcohol and caffeine, limit sun exposure to cooler hours, wear loose breathable clothing and never stop medication without consulting a doctor.