Summer brings sunshine, pool days and unfortunately, soaring temperatures that can affect more than just your comfort; it can compromise the effectiveness of your medications. Whether you're picking up a new prescription, traveling or just trying to stay cool at home, heat can impact your medicine.

Everyone on prescription medication in Houston should talk with their doctor or pharmacist about how heat may affect their medication or its effectiveness. Being informed is the first and most important step for staying safe.

Why Temperature Matters for Medication

Medications are formulated under very specific conditions, and temperature plays a key role in their stability. Most medications are designed to be stored at room temperature, generally between 68°F and 77°F. Some can tolerate higher and lower temperatures for short periods, but prolonged exposure to high heat (over 86°F) can potentially cause chemical changes, reduce effectiveness or even lead to dangerous byproducts.

This is especially critical for:

• Insulin and other injectable medications
• Inhalers
• Antibiotics
• Heart and blood pressure medications
• Hormones (including birth control)
• Liquid medications and suspensions

If exposed to excessive heat, these medications may not work as intended, putting your health at risk.

Common Situations Where Heat Becomes a Risk

Even if your medication starts out safe in the pharmacy, there are several everyday scenarios where heat can become a threat:

1. Leaving Medication in the Car

Your car can reach 120°F or more in the summer, even with the windows cracked. Leaving medications in a glove box or center console for even a short time can ruin them. Always take your medications with you when you leave the car.

2. Outdoor Travel or Activities

Whether you're hiking, heading to the beach or attending an outdoor event, medications in your purse or backpack can get too warm. Store them in an insulated bag or portable cooler when possible.

3. Mail-Order Prescriptions

Heat-sensitive medications delivered during a hot spell could sit in a mailbox or on a porch for hours. If you receive medications by mail, opt for overnight delivery when possible and track the package to retrieve it immediately.

4. Home Storage Near Heat Sources

It’s common to keep medications in a bathroom cabinet or kitchen drawer, but these areas can experience spikes in heat from showers or cooking. Store your medications in a dry, cool area away from heat-producing appliances, sunlight or humidity.

How to Tell if Your Medication Has Been Compromised

Unfortunately, there’s not always a visible sign that a medication has been damaged by heat. However, these visible indicators can be a red flag:

• Changes in color or texture (e.g., tablets that crumble or become discolored)
• Unusual odor
• Separation in liquid medications
• Clogged or sputtering inhalers

If anything seems off, don’t risk using the medication. Contact your pharmacist to see if you need a replacement.

Tips for Keeping Your Medication Safe During Summer

Here are some easy ways to keep your medications safe and effective, no matter how hot it gets outside:

• Use insulated bags or small coolers when transporting medications, especially if you’ll be outside or traveling.
• Never leave medication in the car, even for a short stop.
• Check the label or ask your pharmacist about proper storage instructions.
• Plan ahead for vacations by talking with your pharmacist about how to store medications on planes, road trips or while camping.
• Watch for mail-order delivery times and don’t let medications sit outside in the heat.

Talk to Your Pharmacist About Medication Storage

If you're ever unsure how to store your medication during the summer, or any time of year, your local pharmacist is your best resource. At St. Hope Pharmacy, we’re here to answer your questions and help you stay safe. Whether it’s adjusting your refill timing before a trip, recommending storage solutions or flagging heat-sensitive prescriptions, our team is dedicated to supporting your health.

Trust Our Pharmacy to Help You Stay Safe in the Texas Heat

At St. Hope Pharmacy in Bellaire, Conroe, Houston, Sugar Land and Dickinson, we know that managing your health doesn’t stop when the temperature rises. Connect with a pharmacist who is always prepared to answer your questions and provide medication temperature control advice. We’re committed to helping you and your family stay safe, healthy and worry-free, no matter the weather.