Heat and medication

As the UK heatwave continues, PAPAA is reminding people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis to follow medicine safety advice first issued by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in June.

Hot weather can affect how your body responds to medicines and how well they work.

The MHRA’s key tips are:

• Keep medicines cool and out of direct sunlight. Store medicines in a cool place at home, away from windowsills, radiators and steamy bathrooms, and avoid leaving them in hot cars or bags. This includes treatments listed in our overview of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis treatments
  
  
• Stay hydrated and keep cool, especially if you take blood pressure tablets or diuretics. These medicines are often prescribed to people with long‑term inflammatory conditions and can increase the risk of dehydration and overheating. Sip water regularly, take breaks from the heat and seek medical advice if you feel unwell.
  
  
• Check whether your medicines increase sun sensitivity. Some treatments, including methotrexate and other systemic medicines used for psoriatic disease, can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Read the patient information leaflet, use sun protection and seek advice if you notice unusual rashes or severe sunburn.
  
  

People taking regular treatments for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis should continue their prescribed medicines, but read the leaflet and speak to a pharmacist, GP, dermatologist or rheumatologist, if they are unsure about storing medicines safely or managing side effects in the heat.

For full details, see the MHRA’s guidance