Medicines can have dangerous side effects when it's hot. This follows from a report by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) published on Wednesday, which was reported by the German news agency (dpa). Medicines for drainage and to lower blood pressure are particularly affected. Thus, heat-related vasodilatation can significantly enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect of many cardiovascular drugs. This increases the risk of fainting or circulatory disorders of the organs or even a heart attack. Active substances against heart arrhythmia, antidiabetics, opiates, painkillers and many psychopharmaceuticals can also lead to deterioration of cognition or problems with blood pressure in hot weather. In addition, heat can affect the shelf life of medicines and thus reduce their effectiveness. The publication is the second part of the three-part status report "Climate change and health", which  coordinated by RKI. In addition to heat, extreme weather fluctuations, UV radiation, allergies and air pollution can also lead to health problems in the future. (Marek Sleziona)