High blood pressure, or hypertension, can lead to heart and other organ damage if not properly managed.
Typically, doctors prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and minimize the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Researchers from the University of Vigo and other institutions conducted a study with over 19,000 participants who were instructed to take their hypertension medication either in the morning or at bedtime.
The patients were followed for an average of six years, with their blood pressure regularly monitored over 48-hour periods.
The study found that patients who took their medication at bedtime had better controlled blood pressure and a significantly lower risk of death or illness caused by heart or blood vessel problems than those who took their medication in the morning.
Specifically, bedtime medication users had:
- 45% lower risk of dying from or suffering heart attacks, stroke, or heart failure, or needing a procedure to unblock narrowed arteries.
- 66% lower risk of death from heart or blood vessel issues.
- 44% lower risk of heart attacks.
- 40% lower risk of coronary revascularization.
- 42% lower risk of heart failure.
- 49% lower risk of stroke.
Implications for Hypertension Management
Despite current guidelines on hypertension treatment not mentioning or recommending any preferred time for medication, the study challenges the commonly-held belief that morning treatment is most effective.
The results suggest that taking medication at bedtime could be a more effective way to control blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Patients with high blood pressure or those at risk should consult with their doctors about the best time of day to take their medication.
Lifestyle Changes
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can also help manage high blood pressure. These may include eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction.
Following the doctor’s instructions and taking medication as directed can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of serious future health problems.
Further Information
The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Vigo.
For more information about managing high blood pressure, consider studies about the best times to take hypertension medication, and emerging treatments for hypertension.
Studies also suggest that beetroot juice and certain plant nutrients could help lower high blood pressure.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies about how fasting may help reverse high blood pressure, and beetroot juice could help reduce blood pressure
For more information about health, please see recent studies about 5 medicines to treat high blood pressure, and results showing diets high in flavonoids could help reduce stroke risk.
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