Ramadan 17th May 2018
If you’re taking prescribed medicines and fasting during Ramadan, now is the perfect time to talk to your IPSA Pharmacist.
Ramadan Medicine Use Review Service – what is it?
Our specially tailored Medicine Use Review Service offers help and advice on how to take your medicines during the holy month of Ramadan. Many Muslim patients significantly alter the time and dosage of their medicines during Ramadan and this could affect your medication. Our Pharmacists are here to help and advise you on how to safely change the times you take your medicines, ensuring you continue to manage your health condition effectively
How long does it take?
A Medicine Use Review usually takes 10 minutes but as customers have different needs, it may take a little longer.
Why not use Ramadan as an opportunity to give up smoking?
If you are a smoker, Ramadan is the ideal time of year to try and stop smoking. Our specially trained Pharmacists and branch colleagues can also offer advice and support to help you beat the addiction and quit for good.
Minor ailments during Ramadan
There are a number of minor ailments that can arise during Ramadan and it is important to be aware of them to maintain your health.
| Ailments | Treatments |
| Constipation Caused by lack of water and fibre. Also, eating too many refined carbohydrates |
Stay active, drink regularly and eat healthily to keep your bowel active. Include lots of fruit, vegetables and fibre. |
| Indigestion From eating too much fried food and overeating. |
Do not overeat, and drink adequate amounts of water avoid fried and fatty food. |
| Heartburn The over active production of acid in the stomach can lead to heartburn. Usually triggered when the brain transports signals to the stomach at the sight or smell of food. |
Eating in moderation, avoiding oily and very spicy food. Reducing your caffeine intake and stopping smoking can also be of benefit. |
| Dehydration From not drinking sufficiently before a fast increases your risk of dehydration. During fasting the body continues to lose water and salts through breathing, perspiring and when urinating. |
Drink plenty of water. |
| Headache Due to dehydration or hunger, poor rest, or the absence of caffeine or nicotine. |
A moderate and balanced diet, especially not missing the pre-dawn meal, taking in enough fluids and if necessary some painkillers can help prevent or reduce the risk of headache. |
| Muscle Cramps Caused by not enough calcium or magnesium in the diet. |
Eat foods rich in these minerals, such as fruit and vegetables, dairy products, meat, dried fruit and dates |
At IPSA we have a range of over the counter treatments to help you tackle and provide relief from the health symptoms associated with fasting. Pop into our Pharmacy and ask for health advice and treatment, which is available over the counter.
Top tips for healthy eating and drinking
- Make sure you drink lots of water.
- Don’t skip Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) as it provides enough energy for the rest of your day.
- Consume foods that are digested slowly such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and grains as well as brown (unpolished) rice.
- Only do light brisk exercise.
- Consume fibre rich foods and bran-containing foods, whole wheat, seeds and grains, vegetables like green beans, peas, marrow, corn and spinach.
Your Pharmacist can also put you in touch with organisations offering further support and information, including:
NHS Choices
Diabetes UK
British Heart Foundation
Our Medicine Use Review is available annually if you have collected prescriptions from this pharmacy for 3 months or more. All patients are entitled to have a chaperone present for any consultation where they feel one is required. The Medicine Use Review is subject to availability and an appointment may have to be made. The Medicine Use Review service is funded by the NHS.
*Subject to the sighting of the moon.
