Many people with hypertension often wonder: Is it better to take blood pressure medication in the morning or at night? Some have heard that taking it at night may be more effective, while others are used to taking it in the morning. So, what does the science say?Let’s explore the best time to take blood pressure medication and clear up a few common misconceptions.

Morning or Night: When Should You Take Blood Pressure Medicine?

A large-scale European study called the TIME study offers some insight. Conducted in 2022, it followed over 20,000 participants for more than five years, comparing those who took their medication between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. with those who took it between 8 p.m. and midnight.

The result? There was no significant difference in cardiovascular outcomes between the two groups. In other words, for most people with dipper-type hypertension—the most common form, where blood pressure peaks in the morning and afternoon and drops at night—both morning and evening doses were similarly effective.

That said, timing may still matter depending on your individual blood pressure patterns.

If your blood pressure doesn’t drop much at night or fluctuates during the evening, a nighttime dose may be better.

If your nighttime blood pressure tends to be low, morning medication might be more appropriate.

Commonly Phased-Out Blood Pressure Medications:

Despite the wide range of available antihypertensive drugs, not all are suitable for long-term use. According to the China Cardiovascular Health Report 2022, many patients still use outdated or less effective medications, which may cause unnecessary side effects. Here are some examples:

1. Nifedipine tablets (immediate-release): These act quickly but wear off fast, failing to control blood pressure over 24 hours. Modern guidelines now favor extended- or sustained-release formulations of nifedipine for more stable control.

2. Compound Luo Bu Ma tablets: A mix of traditional Chinese and Western ingredients, this medication may cause side effects like a racing heartbeat or skin changes. It's no longer recommended for routine use.

3. Reserpine-containing combination drugs: Reserpine affects the central nervous system and can lead to significant adverse effects when used long-term. Most treatment guidelines now advise against its use.

Three Common Misconceptions About Blood Pressure Medication:

1. “I don’t need medication if I don’t have symptoms.”

Delaying treatment increases your risk of stroke, heart attack, and other complications. If diagnosed, follow your doctor’s instructions and start treatment promptly.

2. Once my blood pressure is under control, I don’t need to keep taking medication

Hypertension is a chronic condition—not a short-term illness. Stopping medication on your own can cause your blood pressure to spike again, possibly leading to serious health issues. Even if your readings improve, long-term treatment is usually necessary.

3. “Health supplements can replace blood pressure medication.”

Many supplements claim to help with high blood pressure, but few are backed by rigorous clinical evidence. They cannot replace prescribed medications. Stick to scientifically validated treatments and always consult your doctor before taking any new supplement.

Best Practices for Taking Blood Pressure Medication:

To keep your blood pressure under control:

Take your medication on time every day—don't skip doses or change the dosage on your own.

Avoid switching medications or adjusting your regimen without a doctor’s guidance.

Adopt healthy lifestyle habits—such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and getting enough sleep—to support your treatment.

What matters most is consistency, following your doctor’s advice, and avoiding common treatment mistakes. With the right medication and healthy habits, you can effectively manage hypertension and reduce the risk of serious complications.