People who use insulin or take metformin are being urged to take extra precautions as the UK experiences record-breaking heat. The mercury hit 35C at Heathrow and Kew Gardens on Wednesday, marking the hottest May day on record for the second consecutive day, prompting an extended amber health warning from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The amber alert covers the south-west, south-east, London, the East and West Midlands, and the west of England, while yellow alerts remain in place for the north-east and north-west. These warnings will stay in effect until 5pm on Thursday, with officials highlighting increased pressure on healthcare services and heightened risks for vulnerable groups, including the over-65s and those with pre-existing conditions.
Dr Anya Gopfert, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, said: "We know that even moderate heat can lead to serious health problems, especially for older people and those with certain health conditions, so it's important that everyone takes simple precautions while enjoying the warm weather over the coming days." She also advised checking on friends, family, and neighbours who may be more vulnerable.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has also cautioned those using insulin or prescribed metformin to exercise extreme care. These diabetes medications can heighten the risk of dehydration or make early warning signs harder to recognise. Antipsychotic drugs such as olanzapine and quetiapine, as well as stimulant medications for attention disorders, may raise body temperature, increasing the likelihood of overheating.
Dehydration can lead to dizziness, headaches, fatigue, confusion, and dark urine, posing particular risks to older adults, young children, and those with heart or kidney conditions. Experts recommend moving to a cooler location, sipping water slowly, and seeking medical advice if symptoms do not improve promptly.
Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer at the MHRA, said: "Let's face it – when there's a heatwave, most of us are focused on getting outside and enjoying it while it lasts. But it's easy to forget that medicines left in the heat – in cars, bags, or on sunny windowsills – might not work properly when you need them." She advised storing medicines in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, staying hydrated, knowing the signs of heat-related illness, and taking extra care in the sun if medication increases sun sensitivity.
