Scientists reveal best time to take high blood pressure tablets to prevent heart attack, stroke

Researchers said they have found “conclusive evidence” that taking medicine for blood pressure (BP) in the evening is no better than taking it in the morning to protect against heart attack, stroke, heart failure or death—meaning it’s best to take them at a time that suits you, writes The Independent.

The findings, presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress 2024, are based on data from five trials involving nearly 47,000 patients.

“Patients should take their once-daily BP-lowering medications at whatever time best suits their preferences and circumstances,” said Professor Ricky Turgeon from the University of British Columbia in Canada.

Although a high blood pressure does not cause symptoms, taking medicines can help prevent complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.

They work in different ways to reduce blood pressure by targeting various parts of the cardiovascular system.

But questions remain around the timing of blood pressure medication, with some experts saying people should take their medicine in the evening because night-time blood pressure is a better predictor of heart disease outcomes than daytime blood pressure.

“These important results should now put the question of when is best to take blood pressure medication to bed,” said Professor Bryan Williams. 

Professor Turgeon said that previous studies looking at the impact of BP medications at night have shown mixed results.

To find out more, the team analyzed the data from five trials, comparing night-time and morning administration of all BP-lowering medications.

Prof Turgeon said the team “concluded that the timing of dosing does not affect outcomes.”

The timing of BP medication had no impact on secondary events including fractures, glaucoma and events related to thinking and memory, the researchers said.