Taking medication for high blood pressure at bedtime may be more effective than taking it in the morning, according to a recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Vigo and other institutions.
High blood pressure can cause damage to the heart and other organs if not treated properly. Doctors usually prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Study Details
The study included more than 19,000 patients who were asked to take their medication in the morning or at bedtime.
The researchers followed them for an average of six years, checking their blood pressure regularly over a 48-hour period.
The Results
The results of the study showed that patients who took their medication at bedtime had better-controlled blood pressure and a lower risk of death or illness caused by heart or blood vessel problems compared to those who took their medication in the morning.
Those who took their medication at bedtime had a 45% lower risk of dying from or suffering heart attacks, stroke, heart failure, or requiring a procedure to unblock narrowed arteries.
They also had a 66% lower risk of death from heart or blood vessel problems, a 44% lower risk of heart attacks, a 40% lower risk of coronary revascularization, a 42% lower risk of heart failure, and a 49% lower risk of stroke.
Implications for People with High Blood Pressure
The researchers found that current guidelines on the treatment of hypertension do not mention or recommend any preferred treatment time.
Morning ingestion has been the most common recommendation by physicians, but this study shows that taking medication at bedtime may be more effective in reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
People with high blood pressure and healthcare providers who treat this condition should take note of this study’s implications.
It suggests that taking medication at bedtime may be a more effective way to control blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
It also challenges the common belief that treating high blood pressure in the morning is the best approach.
Patients with high blood pressure or those at risk of developing it should consult their doctor about the best time of day to take their medication.
Other Lifestyle Changes
In addition to taking medication, making lifestyle changes can also help manage high blood pressure. These include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing stress.
It’s essential to follow the doctor’s instructions and take the medication as directed, as this can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of serious health problems in the future.
How to reduce high blood pressure
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies about the best time to take high blood pressure drugs, and scientists find new way to treat high blood pressure.
For more information about health, please see recent studies that Beetroot juice could help lower high blood pressure, and results showing this common plant nutrient could help reduce high blood pressure.
The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Vigo.
Copyright © 2023 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
