Millions of people who have been prescribed medication for high blood pressure, such as beta blockers and diuretics, have received a warning from a pharmacist. With Wales set to experience sweltering conditions in a significant heatwave as temperatures climb above 30C across much of the nation, those who face elevated risks of health complications have been alerted to particular concerns.
An extreme heat warning has been declared by the Met Office, with certain areas anticipated to reach peaks of 38C. The meteorological service stated: "Met Office Amber Extreme Heat Warnings have been issued from Monday through to Thursday with temperatures widely exceeding 35C."
Across the UK, millions of individuals take beta-blockers and diuretics. According to the British Heart Foundation, over 50 million prescriptions for beta-blockers are issued annually, with approximately two million people relying on them to control hypertension and other circulatory problems. It states: "Each year there are more than 50 million prescriptions for beta blockers in the UK."