New findings from the University of Dundee challenge when high blood pressure medications should be taken
A comprehensive study from the University of Dundee in Scotland adds nuance to long standing beliefs about when to dose antihypertensive medicines. The research indicates that the time of administration does not determine the drugs’ effectiveness for managing high blood pressure, a conclusion that contrasts with earlier trials. The results were shared with the medical community at the 2022 Congress of the European Society of Cardiology.
The study tracked more than 21,000 adults diagnosed with hypertension over a period of five years. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: half taking their antihypertensive tablets in the morning and half in the evening. The average participant was 65 years old, with a smaller majority of men than women in the cohort. The vast majority of participants identified as of European descent. The median follow up spanned 5.2 years, and some individuals remained in the study for more than nine years, providing a long view on outcomes. Across both dosing schedules, the rate of hospitalizations linked to cardiovascular problems caused by hypertension remained similar, suggesting that the timing of medication did not influence these critical events in a measurable way.
In the broader clinical context, nighttime blood pressure has often been highlighted as a stronger predictor of adverse outcomes than daytime blood pressure. Earlier efforts like the Hygia2 study suggested that taking blood pressure medications in the evening could offer superior protection. The Dundee data challenge that claim, showing that evening dosing did not provide a consistent advantage in the real world. The researchers emphasize that for most individuals with high blood pressure, the best practice is to take antihypertensive medicines at a time that fits their daily routine and improves adherence. This perspective aligns with a growing emphasis on patient-centered care, where practical considerations can influence medication effectiveness just as much as the pharmacology itself. The findings underscore the importance of ongoing, individualized management and regular monitoring to maintain blood pressure within target ranges, regardless of dosing time. Attribution: European Society of Cardiology Congress 2022 report on hypertension treatment timing and outcomes.