Prepare well for Ramadan, including with your medications
Prepare well for Ramadan, even with your medicine
At the end of this month, Ramadan begins. This is an important period of reflection and fasting for many Muslims. During this month, you do not eat or drink anything between sunrise and sunset. Exceptions include people who are sick or chronically ill. Do you belong to this group of people, do you use medication and do you decide to participate in Ramadan? Then this may affect the effect of your medication and your health. It is therefore important to prepare well. We would like to help you with that.
Medicine use during Ramadan
Fasting may cause your medicines to work differently. For example, if you take medications that you should normally take during the day, this may become more difficult during Ramadan. Consider medications for diabetes, high blood pressure or asthma. Because of the changed eating and drinking patterns, the effect of your medication may be less predictable. As a result, you may experience symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue or fluctuations in your blood sugar.
It is important to consult with us in time about your medication. Together we can look at an appropriate intake schedule to suit your fasting period. This way you can avoid problems and still safely participate in Ramadan.
Risks associated with improper medication use
Skipping medication or improperly adjusting intake can pose health risks. Consider:
- Blood pressure problems: If you do not take medications for high blood pressure on time, your values can fluctuate greatly.
- Switching blood sugars:For people with diabetes, it is important to keep a close eye on their blood sugar levels. Fasting can disrupt these values.
Dehydration
Because you don't drink during the day, you may become dehydrated more quickly. This can be dangerous if you take medications that promote fluid loss. This applies to the following medications also called SADMAN medications:
SADMAN stands for:
- S: SGLT2 inhibitors (e.g., dapagliflozin, empagliflozin)
- A: ACE inhibitors (e.g., ramipril, lisinopril)
- D: Diuretics or 'plasma pills' (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide)
- M: Metformin
- A: Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) (e.g. losartan, valsartan)
- N: NSAIDs or anti-inflammatories (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
During periods of illness or period associated with risk of dehydration, it is important to adjust these medications temporarily and contact us for further advice.
So it is crucial to properly align your medication with your fasting schedule!
Tips for safe medication use during Ramadan
Here are some tips for staying healthy during fasting:
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Please consult with us well in advance: Discuss well before the start of Ramadan how you can continue to take your medication safely.
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Keep a fixed schedule: Try to take your medicine at set times, such as immediately after breaking the fast ("iftar") and just before sunrise ("suhoor").
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Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water during the hours you do get to eat and drink. This helps your body and medications function better.
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Please pay attention to your body: Do you feel dizzy, nauseous or have other symptoms? If so, contact your doctor or us.
The table below shows the risks associated with each medication while taking Ramadan
| Medicine Group | Examples | Risks | Advice | |
| ACE-inhibitors | Ramipril, enalapril | Low blood pressure, kidney damage | Consider dose reduction and monitor blood pressure regularly | |
| Antibiotics | Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid | Increased efficacy | Schedule so that doses are taken during iftar and suhoor | ARBs (AngiotensinII inhibitors) | Losartan, valsartan | Low blood pressure, kidney problems | Consult with pharmacist about possible dose adjustments |
| Beta blockers | Metoprolol, propranolol | Low blood pressure, fatigue | Adjust dosage and discuss intake during meals | |
| Blood thinners | Acenocoumarol, rivaroxaban | Blood bleeding or thrombosis | INR monitoring and possible timing adjustment | |
| Diabetes medications | Gliclazide, glimepiride, insulin, metformin | Hypoglycemia, acidosis (metformin in dehydration) | Consult with your prescriber about dosage or alternatives | |
| Medication for epilepsy | Carbamazepine, valproate | Assaults due to missed doses | Establish a good schedule with the pharmacist | |
| NSAIDs | Ibuprofen, naproxen | Nile damage, gastric bleeding | Avoid prolonged use during Ramadan, consult with pharmacist | |
| Plast tablets (diuretics) | Furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide | Drying out, low blood pressure | Eventually adjust dose or take it during iftar | |
| Psychopharmaceuticals | Lithium, benzodiazepines | Poisoning (lithium), drowsiness | Strict control of medication levels | |
| Schildroid medication | Levothyroxine | Increased efficacy due to irregular intake | Take before suhoor (morning meal) in consultation with pharmacist | SGLT2-inhibitors | Dapagliflozin, empagliflozin | Dehydration, ketoacidosis | Consult with pharmacist, possible temporary discontinuation during fasting |
Any doubts about your medication use?
Fasting is an important tradition, but your health always comes first. If you are taking medication, make sure you are well prepared. Contact us to create a safe plan together. We're happy to help.
