Doctor Alex George has issued a crucial alert to individuals using antidepressants. The Met Office has declared a rare red warning due to extreme heat sweeping across parts of the UK, with temperatures anticipated to soar up to 40°C.

Midweek, during the peak of the heatwave, temperatures could approach the UK’s record high of 40.3°C, recorded in Lincolnshire in July 2022. This coincided with the issuance of the Met Office’s inaugural red heat warning.

For those on specific medications, including antidepressants, such as SNRIs, antipsychotic drugs, and certain SSRIs, the heat can exacerbate discomfort. These medications can impact body temperature regulation, heightening sensitivity to heat.

In a TikTok post directed at his 1.1 million followers, Dr. Alex emphasized the influence of mental health medications on heat tolerance amid the ongoing heatwave. He highlighted that various medications, like Sertraline and Citalopram, can intensify heat-related challenges, urging individuals to be mindful of these effects.

To manage heat-related issues, Dr. Alex recommended practical solutions. One effective tip involves using a chilled damp kitchen towel, rotating it with another kept in the freezer to cool the body. Staying hydrated by drinking ample water is also crucial, especially for those prone to increased sweating due to medication effects.

Additionally, Dr. Alex shared his personal journey of being diagnosed with ADHD at 30 in 2022, followed by an OCD diagnosis in October 2025. He underwent a private autism assessment, confirming his autism diagnosis earlier this year. Reflecting on his diagnoses, Dr. Alex highlighted the importance of seeking appropriate medical advice and understanding the impacts of mental health medications during extreme weather conditions.