All beta-blocker drugs can affect how the body controls its temperature. They do this by reducing the heart rate and restricting the cardiovascular reactions, like blood vessel dilation, that are necessary for cooling down. The most common beta-blockers that impact temperature regulation include: Propranolol (Inderal,) Metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), Atenolol (Tenormin) and Bisoprolol (Zebeta).
Diuretics are similarly routinely prescribed for ailments including heart failure and elevated blood pressure, often alongside beta-blockers. Superintendent pharmacist Robert Bradshaw, of Oxford Online Pharmacy, has cautioned people with high blood pressure to "watch out" for numerous health issues triggered by hot weather, reports the Mirror.
"UK temperatures are expected to soar this weekend, and Brits need to keep their wits about them, ensuring they're aware of the necessary steps to take if faced with any heat-related health risks", he said.
