Three pharmacist tips for a safe and healthy summer

2-minute read

It’s time for some summer fun! Nothing beats pool parties, backyard barbecues and trips to the beach. But be careful—sunny skies, hot temperatures and travel have their risks, especially if you’re taking certain medications.

The pharmacists at Express Scripts, the administrator of the HealthSelect^SM Prescription Drug Program, have some tips to stay safe and healthy while enjoying summer activities.

1. Be prepared for summer travel with your medications.

Here are some tips to ensure that your trip goes smoothly if you are traveling with medication:

• Bring extra medication for your trip so that you don’t run out.
• Keep medications in their original containers.
• If you’re flying, keep your prescription medications in your carry-on luggage or purse so they don’t get lost.
• Store medications that need to be kept cool (such as insulin) in an insulated bag, and keep them either in your carry-on bag on an airplane or in the passenger area of your car so they aren’t exposed to heat.

2. Stay out of the heat and sun if you’re taking certain medications.

Sunlight and heat can make side effects from certain medications worse. For example, antifungals, retinoids, hormonal contraceptives, statins and other cholesterol-lowering medications, antidepressants and some antibiotics can make your skin more sensitive to the sun and therefore more likely to burn. Other medications can reduce sweating, making it harder for the body to keep cool.

If you take any medication or are prescribed a new medication, ask your pharmacist if there are any concerns with heat or sun exposure and how you can best protect yourself from sunburn or dehydration.

3. Manage medications for children at camp.

If your child takes medication during camp hours, here are some tips to help keep them safe and on track:

• Familiarize yourself with the camp’s medication policy.
• Prepare a list of medications with warnings and storage requirements, including an action plan for staff in an emergency.
• Keep medication in the original container with the original label.
• Make sure your child understands what the medication does for them so they understand the importance of taking it.
• Keep tabs on the medication supply and expiration date so that your child has an adequate amount of medication and doesn’t run out while at camp.

If you have any questions about staying safe and healthy this summer, your HealthSelect Prescription Drug Plan is here for you. Specially trained pharmacists are available 24/7 so you can always get the help you need, no matter where your summer takes you. For more information call member services at (800) 935-7189.