Heart Health
Take your blood pressure drugs at the most convenient time of day
Research we're watching
- Reviewed by Deepak L. Bhatt, M.D., M.P.H, Former Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter
Some research has suggested that taking blood pressure medications in the evening may make them more effective. But a new study finds that's not the case.
The study included more than 21,000 people who were taking at least one medication to treat their high blood pressure. Their average age was 65. Half were randomly assigned to take their drugs between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., while the others took their doses between 8 p.m. and midnight.
After a median follow-up of just over five years, the percentage of people who had a stroke, heart attack, or died from vascular disease was nearly the same in both groups (3.7% for the morning dose vs. 3.4% for the evening dose).
People on blood pressure drugs should take them consistently at a time of day that's most convenient for them and minimizes any side effects. The study was published Oct. 22, 2022, in The Lancet.
Image: © Jon Feingersh Photography Inc/Getty Images
About the Author
Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
About the Reviewer
Deepak L. Bhatt, M.D., M.P.H, Former Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter
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