Does It Matter When You Take Your Blood Pressure Pills?
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If you take medication for high blood pressure (hypertension), you might have heard that taking your pills at night could help protect your heart better than taking them in the morning. Some past studies suggested nighttime use lowers the risk of heart attacks and strokes. But a new Canadian study — the BedMed Trial — brings fresh insight to this topic.
What Did the Researchers Do?
The BedMed study, published in JAMA in May 2025, set out to answer a simple but important question: Does the timing of blood pressure medication — morning vs. bedtime — make a difference in preventing major heart problems or death?
Over 3,300 adults with hypertension were enrolled from regular clinics across Canada. Half were told to take their blood pressure medication in the morning, and the other half at bedtime. The researchers followed them for an average of 4.6 years and tracked whether they had heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, or died from any cause.
What Were the Results?
- The rate of heart problems and death was nearly the same in both groups.
- People taking medications at bedtime had 2.3 events per 100 patient-years.
- Those taking them in the morning had 2.4 events per 100 patient-years.
- There were also no major differences in side effects like dizziness, falls, or cognitive issues.
What Does This Mean for You?
This large and well-run study shows that it likely doesn’t matter whether you take your blood pressure pills in the morning or at bedtime. What matters more is taking your medication consistently.
There were no added benefits to bedtime dosing — and no extra risks either. So, the best time to take your medicine is the time that fits your daily routine and helps you remember it.
Practical Tips
- Pick a time you won’t forget. Link it to a daily habit like brushing your teeth.
- Stick to the schedule. Consistency helps keep your blood pressure under control.
- Talk to your doctor. If you notice side effects, ask if adjusting the timing might help.
- Use reminders. A pillbox or a phone alarm can help you stay on track.
Final Word
The BedMed trial gives patients and doctors more freedom in managing high blood pressure. Whether you take your pills in the morning or at night, the most important thing is that you take them regularly and as prescribed.