Ramadan fasting and medications

Ramadan fasting and medications

Safety First

Make sure that the patient can go safely from dawn to sunset without meds. If they can’t, refer the patient to their Imam for other ways to honour Ramadan.

sun rising then setting
Pills beside a clock

Adjust Time of Meds

Adjust oral meds so patients need to take them only 1-2 times per day (at dawn and/or sunset). Remember to adjust pharmacy labels, blister pack labels and to notify the prescriber.

Adjust Types of Meds

If the dosing times cannot be adjusted, consider a different treatment option. Try to choose medications (such as antibiotics) that are taken only once or twice daily.

Medicine bottles
Plate and snowflake

Adjust the Timing of the Fast

If someone cannot fast over a long summer day, they can make up their fast over the shorter winter days.

Consider the Condition

Conditions such as diabetes, migraine and hypertension need special attention. Encourage patients to eat suhoor (morning meal) and to stay hydrated. Adjust drug doses as needed.

Sphygmomanometer
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