As Europe grapples with record-breaking heat this July, holidaymakers are being urged to take extra care, particularly those taking medications that may affect the body’s response to high temperatures. With summer travel at its peak, concerns are rising that some drugs could increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses.
Dr Sean Ormond, a pain management specialist at Atlas Pain Specialists, has partnered with Total Travel Protection to raise awareness of these risks and offer guidance for safer travel. He explains: “Several medications can interfere with how the body regulates heat. Diuretics, often used for high blood pressure, some antihistamines, antidepressants, and antipsychotics can reduce sweating or affect hydration, making it harder to cool down.” He adds, “Medications for diabetes can increase the risk of dehydration and blood sugar fluctuations in high temperatures.”
With temperatures surpassing 40°C in parts of Spain and Greece, Dr Ormond emphasises the importance of preparation. He advises travellers on prescription medications to drink water regularly to support the body’s natural cooling systems, store medications in cool conditions away from heat and sunlight, and watch for side effects that may be intensified by hot weather such as dizziness, fatigue, or low blood pressure. He suggests scheduling activities during cooler times of day and monitoring how the body is responding to the heat.
“Pack medications in a carry-on with a cooling pouch if needed, bring extra doses in case of delays, and always keep a list of your prescriptions,” says Dr Ormond. “Stay ahead of dehydration by drinking water consistently throughout the day, and avoid alcohol or caffeine, which can worsen fluid loss. And don’t hesitate to adjust your schedule; plan activities for cooler parts of the day if needed.”
Sarah Findlay, a travel expert at Total Travel Protection, adds further insight for those travelling with health concerns. “Before heading off for your holiday, you should double-check that you have correctly declared any medical conditions on your travel insurance to ensure your cover is valid,” she says. “It’s also important to consider if your medical condition could be made worse by hot temperatures, such as respiratory issues, heart disease, or diabetes. In this case, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about any precautions you could be putting in place. Always pack medications in your hand luggage, not checked baggage, so they’re easily accessible if the temperature rises unexpectedly while you are travelling.”
She recommends staying informed by downloading local weather or emergency apps, as some countries treat heat warnings as official health alerts. “This helps you stay informed if authorities issue extreme heat advisories that might affect your day plans or safety,” she explains.
“If you’re over 50 or travelling with a known condition, it’s smart to keep a medical summary and list of medications with you, especially if there’s a chance heat could trigger symptoms. If you need emergency care, this speeds up treatment and makes it easier to verify a claim later,” she says.
The UK’s Met Office reports that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, which elevates the risk for vulnerable travellers. For people on medications such as beta-blockers or insulin, speaking with a doctor before departure is strongly advised. Planning ahead and staying alert to health needs can help ensure that summer trips remain safe, even when temperatures rise dramatically.
