The Summer Mistake Even Smart Patients Make—And How to Fix It

Why “good” hydration doesn’t always protect patients on medications. Here’s what actually works.

Author

Dr. Jonathan Lee
August 21st, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes

👋 Hello Health Champions,

Recently, a patient came for her usual medication refill. She looked tired and said:

“Dr. Lee, I drank extra Gatorade before my walk, took my blood pressure pills as usual, and stayed out of the hottest sun. But I almost fainted.”

Even with careful planning, she felt weak and dizzy on her walk. The problem: her daily “water pill” (hydrochlorothiazide) flushed out important electrolytes faster than any sports drink could replace them. The hot weather, her medication, and basic hydration tips just weren’t enough.

If you take medication, summer heat can make hydration tricky — and regular advice might not keep you safe!

💊 Medication Spotlight: When Sports Drinks Aren’t Enough

Medications that can affect hydration:

  • Diuretics (“water pills”): HCTZ, furosemide, spironolactone

  • ACE inhibitors: lisinopril, enalapril, ramipril

  • SGLT2 inhibitors (for diabetes): Jardiance, Farxiga, Invokana

  • Metformin: can cause more stomach problems in heat

  • Warfarin (blood thinner): dehydration can affect clotting

  • Antihistamines: Benadryl, Claritin (may reduce sweating)

⚠️ Why Sports Drinks Might Not Be Safe

  • Too much sugar can spike blood sugar, especially with diabetes medications

  • Electrolyte mixes might not fit your medication needs

  • Sodium can conflict with heart or kidney diets

  • Artificial dyes or preservatives may interact with blood thinners

❓ Myth vs. Fact

Myth: “Any sports drink can prevent dehydration for heart patients.”
Fact: Hydration plans should fit your medications—generic advice could be risky!

🥒 Best Summer Drinks for Heart and Kidney Patients

  • Plain water (often best)

  • Unsweetened, sodium-free sparkling water

  • Herbal (caffeine-free) tea

  • Low-fat milk (if your doctor approves)

  • Small servings (4–6oz) of 100% fruit juice

  • Water infused with fruit/herbs (lemon, mint, cucumber)

  • DIY electrolyte boost (ask your doctor first):

    • 2 cups water

    • 2 Tbsp lemon or orange juice

    • Pinch of salt

    • 1 tsp honey (optional)

💡 Hydration Tips from Dr. Lee:

  • Ask your doctor about your personal fluid goal

  • Limit sodium, sugar, and caffeine

  • Check labels—“healthy” drinks can hide salt or sugar

  • Most heart or kidney patients should NOT use regular sports drinks for daily hydration

✅ Dr. Lee’s Quick Checklist

  • Weigh yourself each morning — lost 2+ lbs? You might be dehydrated

  • Ask your doctor about potassium and sodium targets

  • Urine check: light yellow = hydrated; dark = risk!

  • Take diuretics early in the day, then hydrate

  • Drink before you are thirsty, especially before exercise

  • Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day

📦 Mail-Order Medication Safety (Summer)

  • Summer mail delays are up 49%

  • Medicines can sit in warm mailboxes

  • Weather can slow down shipping

💊 Safety Tips:

  • Order refills 2 weeks early

  • Have a backup local pharmacy

  • Request signature-required delivery if you can

🆘 If meds arrive late or damaged:

  • Call your pharmacy within 24 hours

  • Request overnight shipping for delays

  • Ask your local pharmacy for an “emergency override” if needed

🚨 Watch for signs of heat-damaged medication:

  • Package feels hot or ice packs have melted

  • Pills are stuck together, discolored, or powdery

  • Liquid medication is cloudy or separated

Stay healthy and informed,
Dr. Lee

📥 This Week’s Downloadable Resource

🔥 BONUS: Summer Medication Effectiveness Tracking Sheet
Or reply “TRACKING SHEET” and I’ll send it!

📨 Stay healthy and informed,
Dr. Lee

P.S. Next in The PharmD Report:
Flying with medications—TSA rules that could save your trip (and some that might surprise you). ✈️

💬 HIT REPLY: Noticed your meds acting differently in the heat? Your story could help others—share and let’s learn together!

References

Medical Disclaimer:
This newsletter provides general health information and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always check with your provider before making changes to your medication.