Ramadan, the ninth holy month observed by Muslims worldwide runs March 11, 2024 – April 9, 2024 this year. During Ramadan, Muslims gather to fast, pray and reflect. Fasting takes place between Suhoor, the morning meal before sunrise, and Iftar, the evening meal after sunset. Muslims observing Ramadan will abstain from consuming anything orally, including medications.
We sat down with professor Dr. Kelly Grindrod, who led the development of Ramadan resources for health care practitioners, to answer some frequently asked questions about medication taking during Ramadan. We also heard from our PharmD student Qamar Mobayed (Rx2026) about how she implemented Ramadan resources during her co-op work term.
Photo credit: Qamar Mobayed. The informational material is credited to The University of Waterloo Islamic Information Centre.
Q&A about Ramadan and medication taking
UW: Can I take my medications during Ramadan?
KG: Most oral medication doses can be adjusted to be taken before or after fasting. Inhaled and injected medications are generally allowed during the fasting period as they are not ingested.
UW: Do I need to have my doses adjusted?
KG: Many oral medications are easy to adjust to another time of the day. Common examples include blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and antidepressant medicines. Medications that are more difficult to adjust include medications that require multiple doses per day, such as with Parkinson’s disease, chronic pain, and seizure. People who have health-related barriers, including those who are pregnant or menstruating, may be exempted from fasting.
UW: How can I take medications to fit around fasting hours?
KG: Many medications can be adjusted to be taken in the morning before the fast begins, or in the evening after the fast is broken. Caution with certain medications though, such as diabetes medications, that can cause low blood sugar. Patients with serious chronic diseases should always consult their healthcare providers to discuss the safest strategy for honour the month of Ramadan.
UW: When Ramadan ends should I re-adjust my medications again?
KG: Yes, typically medication schedules will return to pre-Ramadan timing. It is helpful to work with a pharmacist or physician to adjust the timing of medications, both for Ramadan fasting and for after the month of Ramadan is over.
UW: How else can my pharmacist help me?
KG: Pharmacists are learning more about Ramadan fasting. They may want to ask questions as well to learn how patients honour Ramadan and can offer advice for adjusting the timing of medicines. Pharmacists can also offer reassurance around medicines that do not need to be adjusted, such as inhalers, nasal sprays, injectable drugs, and topical agents like skin and vaginal creams.
Qamar Mobayed (Rx2026)
From our student Qamar Mobayed (Rx2026)
As a pharmacy student starting my first co-op work term, I was keen on enriching my experience by contributing something meaningful to both the workplace and my colleagues. With Ramadan coinciding with my co-op work term, I seized the opportunity to promote diversity, inclusivity, and awareness surrounding Ramadan. Just days before Ramadan began, I arranged a display in our staff lunchroom, with informational materials and date fruits for everyone to enjoy. This sparked engaging conversations and curiosity among my colleagues, fostering a more inclusive environment as we approached Ramadan!
While working in the pharmacy, patients inquire about medication adjustments and fasting. As healthcare professionals, advocating for our patients with diverse health needs starts within our workplace. This experience emphasized the significance of inclusive team dynamics in ensuring optimal patient care within our diverse community.
Looking for more health resources? Visit the Waterloo School of Pharmacy Ramadan and health resources page.