Summer safety advice: taking ADHD medication in the heat
Last reviewed: July 2026
Summary: Stimulant ADHD medications reduce thirst and affect the way your body regulates temperature. Drink lots of fluids, avoid peak heat and store medication below 25°C. If you experience dizziness, confusion, rapid heartbeat or heatstroke, stop taking medication immediately. Call NHS 111 for non-urgent or 999 for emergency help.
On this page:
How heat can affect your body on ADHD stimulants
How to take stimulant ADHD medications safely in the heat
Storing your medication during the summer
Sun sensitivity and protection
If you don't feel well because of your ADHD medication
When to seek help
How heat can affect your body on stimulants
Stimulant medications can affect how your body regulates temperature. You might find that you:
Feel less thirsty than usual
Drink less than you normally would
Feel warmer or more physically activated
This can increase your risk of dehydration, electrolyte loss and heat-related illness – especially during exercise, outdoor events, festivals or heatwaves. These risks can increase if you take certain medications like diuretics or consume caffeine or alcohol.
How to take stimulant ADHD medications safely in the heat
What to do:
Drink fluids regularly throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. We'd recommend you set regular reminders on your phone.
Increase how much you drink in hot weather or when you're active
Take breaks in the shade or somewhere cool
Wear lightweight, loose clothing
Avoid heavy activity during the hottest part of the day (usually 11am-3pm)
Be mindful that caffeine, alcohol and diuretics can make dehydration worse.
Watch out of the signs of dehydration:
Dry mouth
Dizziness
Headache
Dark urine
Fatigue
If you notice these, drink water and cool down. Spot the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke here.
Sun sensitivity and protection
Significant sun sensitivity isn't common with most ADHD stimulant medications. But some people do notice they feel more affected by heat or sunlight. To be on the safe side:
Use sunscreen suitable for your skin type
Wear a hat, protective clothing and sunglasses when you're outside
Seek shade during peak UV hours
If you notice any unusual skin reactions, mention it to your clinician or GP.
How to store your medication during the summer
Most ADHD stimulant medications should be kept at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture. During warmer months, it's worth thinking about where your medication is kept day to day.
Store your medication:
According to the instructions on the packaging – usually below 25°C
In its original packaging
Away from hot spots like car gloveboxes, windowsills, conservatories, tents or beach bags
If your medication has been left somewhere very hot for a while, check with a pharmacist before taking it. Extreme heat can affect how stable and effective the medication is.
If you don’t feel well because of your ADHD medication
Stop your medication immediately if you experience:
Persistent dizziness or fainting
Confusion
Severe headache
Rapid heartbeat
Signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke
Concerns about your medication after it's been exposed to extreme heat
ADHD medication can be stopped straight away without any negative effects – unlike some medications, it doesn't need to be tapered. You may need re-titration after stopping medication, depending on your dose and duration of treatment break. If you need advice around this, please get in touch via our website.
Getting support and emergency help
Please note that we don't provide emergency support. If you feel unwell due to your ADHD medication or need urgent medical help, here's what to do:
Contact NHS 111
Call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk if:
You need urgent help but it's not an immediate emergency
You're not able to reach your local NHS urgent mental health helpline
You're not sure what to do
Emergency help – call 999
FAQs
Do I need to change how I take my medication in summer?
This is unlikely – but it's worth being more intentional about hydration and avoiding peak heat during activity. If you have specific concerns, raise them with your pharmacist.
What if I forgot my medication in a hot car?
Speak to a pharmacist before taking it. They can advise whether it's still safe to use.