Psychotropic drugs use and risk of heat-related hospitalisation

Abstract

In special risk situations such as heat waves, the risk/benefit ratio of psychotropic drugs which could interfere with body temperature regulation has to be carefully assessed, particularly in the elderly.

The health impacts of heat waves in five regions of New South Wales, Australia: a case-only analysis

“…A similar approach to deWning excess heat was used in Italy (Mastrangelo et al 2007), whereas other studies have focussed on speciWc heat wave episodes (Josseran et al 2009;Semenza et al 1999;Shiloh et al 2005). A more exploratory approach similar to the intent of our analysis has been used recently in other studies to try and characterise heat conditions of relevance to health outcomes (Michelozzi et al 2009;Linares and Diaz 2007;Martin-Latry et al 2007). To date, no consistency has been found between the most sensitive heat indicators for diVerent locations.…”

Is greater temperature change within a day associated with increased emergency admissions for schizophrenia?

“…Moreover, with respect to schizophrenia, some factors will influence the individual vulnerability and adaptation to temperature change. For instance, some anti-psychotics can disrupt the normal thermoregulation due to their pharmacological properties (Martin-Latry et al, 2007). Meanwhile, individuals with schizophrenia may sometimes lack the cognitive ability to the surrounding environment, which can lead them to neglect precautions, such as avoiding going outside and wearing appropriate clothing when required (Hansen et al, 2008).…”

Medical Complications of Psychiatric Treatment

“…Antipsychotics can also interfere with temperature regulation, making those who take them poikilothermic and susceptible to both hyperthermia and hypothermia [25]. This is especially true when antipsychotics arecombined with anticholinergic agents.…”