by Jackie Vaughan
While over-the-counter drugs are generally considered safe and effective, they can have dangerous effects for people who are exposed to heat. Read directions on medications carefully and be alert for side effects. Below are some medications which can affect you when riding in hot weather:
| Medication vs Heat | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Medication | Ingredients to Watch | Possible Side Effects | Precautions |
| Allergy Medications | Diphenhydramine hydrochloride, chlorpheniramine, brompheniramine maleate, phenyltoloxamine citrate and triprolidine hydrochloride (antihistamines) | Drowsiness, impaired coordination, slowed reaction time | Take the medication after heat exposure or wait three to four hours before heat exposure. These medicines tend to dry you up so you don’t sweat efficiently |
| Cough/Cold Medications | Pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine hydrochloride, phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride, prophylhexedrine and ephedrine (decongestants) | Nervousness, shakiness, headache, fast or pounding heartbeat, elevated blood pressure and high energy and alertness, followed by fatigue | Take an hour or two before riding in the heat and reduce dosage |
| Menstrual Relief Medications | Pamabrom | Dehydration leading to muscle cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke | Take after riding in the heat, drink plenty of liquids, and eat potassium rich foods such as bananas and orange juice |
| Arthritis/Pain Medications | Aspirin, acetaminophen, phenyltoxolamine, ibuprofen | Mask pain, which can delay recognition of more serious problems | Avoid taking or take fewer |
It’s always best to avoid becoming overheated. Use wet sweatshirts and cold collars to help keep cool. Take in lots of liquids. A little common sense can help you avoid heat-induced problems and make your summer riding a lot more fun.