How to Keep Medications Safe During Heatwaves

Hot Stuff: The summer of 2026 is on track to potentially be one of the hottest on record. While most everyone knows to slather on sunscreen and chug cold water, not everyone is aware of how to take care of medications during the dog days of summer. Many medications are temperature-sensitive, and if your home isn’t climate-controlled, heatwaves could degrade them. 

How to Do It: You’ve probably heard it before: “Store in a cool, dry place.” To get more specific, storage guidelines for most medications range from 59°F to 86°F, ideally under 60% humidity. If you live in a home with air conditioning, placing them in a (kid-safe) cupboard away from humid environments should do the trick. That means no bathroom cabinet, nor the one above your stove. If your home does not have AC, consider purchasing a mini-fridge or a skincare cooler to keep your meds stable. Double-check your medication labels, too, as some need to be stored in the fridge.

The Benefits: Extreme heat can cause some compounds to break down, reducing how well your meds work. Heat also can also cause liquids to evaporate, creams to separate, and capsules to melt. Storing your medications properly means preserving their safety and efficacy.