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Millions of people across the UK who take common heart and blood pressure medicines, including ramipril and bisoprolol, have been reminded to take extra precautions during periods of extreme heat.
The warning comes as temperatures are expected to rise again across parts of the UK, with forecasts predicting another spell of hot weather. Health officials have highlighted that some medicines can be affected by high temperatures, while others may change how the body responds to heat.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued guidance to help people protect their medicines and reduce the risk of heat-related health problems.
Ramipril is a widely prescribed medicine belonging to a group called ACE inhibitors. It is commonly used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and some heart-related conditions.
Bisoprolol is a beta-blocker often prescribed for conditions including high blood pressure, angina, and heart failure. Both medicines help protect the heart and improve circulation, but health experts say people taking these medications should be aware of how heat can affect the body.
During very hot weather, the body works harder to maintain a normal temperature. Sweating helps cool the body, but some medicines can make it harder to manage heat, increase the risk of dehydration, or affect warning signs that the body needs more fluids.
According to the MHRA, medicines such as ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers may affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature during sudden hot spells.
Many medicines need to be stored at temperatures below 25C. When exposed to excessive heat, some medicines may lose effectiveness because the active ingredients can break down.
This is especially important for medicines that require refrigeration or specific storage conditions. Leaving medication in places such as cars, windowsills, handbags, or direct sunlight can increase the risk of damage.
Health officials recommend checking medicine labels and patient information leaflets for storage instructions.
Common mistakes that may affect medicines during hot weather include:
Keeping medicines in a cool, dry place away from sunlight can help maintain their quality and effectiveness.
The MHRA has explained that certain medicines can make it more difficult for the body to cope with high temperatures.
Blood pressure medicines, including ACE inhibitors such as ramipril and beta-blockers such as bisoprolol, may affect temperature regulation. Some people may also experience reduced thirst signals, which can increase the chance of dehydration.
Other medicines that may require extra care during hot weather include:
People taking these medicines should not stop their treatment without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist.
Dehydration can become serious, particularly for older adults, people with heart conditions, kidney problems, or long-term illnesses.
Possible warning signs include:
If you experience symptoms of heat-related illness, move to a cooler area, drink fluids slowly, and seek medical advice if symptoms do not improve.
Severe heat illness can cause confusion, fainting, or serious health complications and may require urgent medical attention.
Health experts recommend several simple steps to stay safe during hot weather.
Keep medicines in a cool, dry place and follow the storage instructions provided with your prescription. Avoid placing medication in direct sunlight or areas that become very warm.
Drink enough water throughout the day, especially during hot weather. Do not wait until you feel extremely thirsty, as some medicines may affect your natural thirst response.
Try to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day. Keep rooms cool by closing curtains or blinds during strong sunlight and opening windows when temperatures drop.
Some medicines can make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure if your medication increases sun sensitivity.
If you are unsure how hot weather may affect your medication, speak with your pharmacist, GP, or healthcare provider. They can provide advice based on your individual health needs.
A common concern during extreme weather is whether people should stop taking certain medicines. Experts strongly advise against stopping prescribed medication without professional guidance.
Ramipril, bisoprolol, and similar medicines are often prescribed to control serious conditions. Suddenly stopping them could increase health risks.
Instead, patients should focus on safe storage, staying hydrated, monitoring symptoms, and contacting a healthcare professional if they have concerns.
Climate experts have warned that periods of extreme heat are becoming more frequent. Hot weather can create additional challenges for people living with long-term health conditions.
For millions of people taking cardiovascular medicines, understanding the relationship between medication and heat can help prevent avoidable problems.
Simple actions, such as storing medicines correctly, drinking enough fluids, and recognising early symptoms of dehydration, can make a significant difference.
As temperatures rise this week, people taking ramipril, bisoprolol, and other commonly prescribed medicines are encouraged to follow official guidance and take extra care.
This article is for general information purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. People taking ramipril, bisoprolol, or any other prescription medicine should not change or stop their treatment without speaking to a qualified healthcare professional. If you experience serious symptoms during hot weather, seek urgent medical help.