Warning to Antidepressant Users as Heat Wave Temperatures Hit 100 Degrees

As extreme heat waves hit the East Coast, public health experts warn that individuals taking common antidepressants—particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Prozac and Zoloft, and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) such as Elavil—may face increased risks of heat intolerance and dehydration.

These medications can disrupt the body’s temperature regulation and sweating response, heightening the danger of heat exhaustion and potentially life-threatening heat stroke. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and muscle cramps. Health professionals advise users to stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, wear loose clothing, and seek immediate help if symptoms arise. Awareness is critical to prevent severe heat-related illness among this vulnerable group. Read more from the New York Post here.