Amid heat wave, doctors warn of health risks for people taking GLP-1 drugs
With the heat of summer in full swing, doctors are warning about increased health risks for Americans taking diabetes and obesity GLP-1 medications.
"The biggest concern is dehydration," Dr. Alexandra Sowa, a dual board-certified physician in internal medicine and obesity medicine, told ABC News. "GLP-1 medications naturally reduce appetite, and for some people they also reduce thirst, so it's easier to fall behind on fluids during hot weather."
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends drinking two to four glasses of fluids each hour for prevention of heat-related illness, a goal that might be harder to achieve for patients on a GLP-1.
Additionally, nausea and vomiting are known side effects of GLP-1s, which further dehydrate the body. Heat, decreased water intake and GLP-1s combined create a dangerous combination that can worsen symptoms.
"Just this morning, a patient told me she rushed out the door without eating or drinking and became nauseated and dizzy on a hot subway platform," Sowa said.
Sowa notes that a few common signs of dehydration to watch out for include dark urine, dizziness, and increasing fatigue among others like lightheadedness, headaches or dry mouth.
Aside from staying out of the heat, there are several ways to help decrease the risk of dehydration while on a GLP-1 in high temperatures.
"I spend more time reminding patients not to rely on thirst alone. I encourage them to drink fluids consistently [and] consider electrolytes if they're sweating heavily," Sowa said.
Some GLP-1 guidance recommends setting an hourly alarm on your phone as a reminder to consume liquids. Including water-rich foods in your daily diet like cucumbers, watermelon and soup can also help you increase your water intake.
During high temperatures, Sowa said she advises patients to "plan ahead."
"Stay on top of hydration, don't skip protein or meals just because you're less hungry and avoid prolonged time outdoors during the hottest part of the day," she said. "If you're vomiting or unable to keep fluids down, contact your healthcare provider."
Areta Bojko, M.D., is a board-certified OB-GYN and gynecologic oncology fellow at Women and Infants Hospital and a member of the ABC News Medical Unit.
