Ramadan: Managing Your Medicines Safely
Managing Your Medicines Safely During Ramadan
Ramadan is an important month for many people. If you are fasting, it’s good to know how this might affect your medicines, health conditions such as diabetes, and your medical appointments. Your health and wellbeing matter, and small changes could make a big difference.
Taking Your Medicines While Fasting
If you normally take medicines during the day, it is important to speak to your pharmacist or doctor before Ramadan begins. Do not stop taking your medicines without medical advice, as this could be harmful to your health.
Depending on the type of medicine you take, your healthcare professional may suggest changing the time you take it, for example at Suhur and Iftar. In some cases, the dose may need to be adjusted temporarily, or you may be advised to switch to a different treatment that is more suitable while fasting. Always follow the advice given by your healthcare professional.
Diabetes and Fasting
If you have diabetes, fasting can affect how your blood sugar levels behave. This may increase the risk of both high and low blood sugar.
Before Ramadan starts, it is important to speak to your GP, practice nurse or pharmacist. They can help you decide whether it is safe for you to fast and advise if any changes are needed to your medication. You may also need to check your blood glucose more frequently during Ramadan to help you stay safe.
Other Long-Term Conditions & Medical Appointments
Conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or asthma may also need review before fasting. Some medicines work best when taken at certain times, so your healthcare team may adjust your schedule.
It’s important to keep planned appointments, especially if your medicines are being reviewed. Let your GP or healthcare professional know that you are fasting. This helps them make the right recommendations for you.
Tips for Staying Well During Ramadan
- Get enough rest and sleep
- Eat balanced meals with slower-release carbohydrates
- Stay hydrated between Iftar and Suhur
- Avoid very sugary foods, especially if you have diabetes
- Monitor symptoms like dizziness, headaches or fatigue
When to Seek Help
If you feel unwell while fasting, it is important to seek medical advice. This includes symptoms such as severe dizziness or fainting, heart palpitations or chest pain, very high or low blood glucose if you have diabetes, or extreme weakness. Your health should always come first, and it is important not to ignore warning signs.
We’re Here to Help
Your pharmacist is here to support you during Ramadan. We can review your medicines, advise on the best times to take them, discuss possible side-effects, and answer any questions you may have in confidence.
If you are unsure whether fasting may affect your health or your medicines, please speak to your pharmacist. We are here to help you stay safe and well.
Ramadan Mubarak from all of us at Peak Pharmacy.
