The recent heatwave has prompted people on SSRIs, specifically Sertraline, to open up about the uncomfortable side effects the medication causes when it’s hot outside.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, also known as SSRIs, are mainly used to treat mental health conditions and work by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. Approximately 8.7 million people in the UK were prescribed SSRIs from 2023 to 2024.
With more hot weather on the way, Dr. Rupa Parmar, GP and Medical Director of Midland Health, is sharing everything you need to know about taking the medication in the summer.
Dr Rupa Parmar said: “Excess sweat is one of the most common side effects of antidepressants. It’s most likely due to how the medication affects the hypothalamus, a brain part that plays an important role in regulating body temperature. Excess sweating can also cause dehydration, and there is a higher risk of heat exhaustion as heat tolerance is much lower.
“Signs of heat exhaustion include headaches, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, and an increased body temperature. For people on SSRIs, knowing the symptoms is crucial. If someone is experiencing heat exhaustion, get them out of the heat, keep them hydrated, and use cold compresses to help them cool down.
“Heatstroke occurs when the body is completely unable to regulate its temperature, which can lead to serious organ damage. It has the same symptoms as heat exhaustion, as well as confusion, seizures, and a rapid heart rate and breathing. The difference is that the symptoms of heat exhaustion usually subside within half an hour. If you are concerned someone has heatstroke, seek medical attention as quick treatment is necessary to prevent serious complications.
“Your body loses a lot of water from sweating, so to combat dehydration, drink at least three litres daily to regulate a normal body temperature. Caffeine and alcohol also increase urine production, so avoid these during the heat and stick to water.
“Avoid being in the sun as much as possible, keeping your time outside to early morning and later evening when the heat is lower. If you’re outside, loose-fitting clothes in breathable fabrics like cotton and linen can help prevent overheating. Cold compresses on the forehead and neck are also good for cooling down.
“Night sweats and hot flushes are also common while on antidepressants, which can make sleeping uncomfortable. To cool down your bedroom, keep your windows, blinds, and curtains closed during the day to keep warm air out, and open them up at night when the temperature outside has dropped. If your room is under 35ºC, you could use a fan, and for the rest of your home, try to limit how long appliances like ovens and washing machines are on, as they can generate a lot of heat.
“If sweat is a problem getting in the way of your day-to-day life, it could be that your antidepressant isn’t right for you. SSRIs are rarely one-size-fits-all, and it can take a while to find the one that works the best for your needs and with minimal side effects. Never come off your medication without consulting your doctor first, and always talk to your GP if you’re experiencing any worrying side effects.”