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Never Take This Pill in the Morning, Warn Experts

The time of day really does matter with taking some medications, according to experts. 
FACT CHECKED BY Emilia Paluszek

Many people don't realize it, but knowing what time of day to take your medications makes a big difference with several prescriptions. When taking a new med, it's vital to ask your physician or pharmacists everything to know about the drug and what time of day will be most effective. Eat This, Not That! Health spoke with Nima Majlesi, DO, Director of Medical Toxicology at Staten Island University Hospital who shares five different medications to avoid taking in the morning and why. Please consult with your doctor for medical advice. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had COVID.

1

Muscle Relaxers

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Dr. Majlesi says, "Muscle relaxants like cyclobenzaprine, methocarbamol, etc. make people sleepy and oftentimes lead to falls, causes dry mouth, and constipation. If you are going to use them, save them for before bedtime."

2

Kava

kava kava supplement capsules on brown wooden plate
Shutterstock / Iryna Imago

Dr. Majlesi tells us, "Kava is a supplement often used for its anxiolytic effects.  Unfortunately, sedation and trouble with focus can be a problem with its use.  Avoid it in the morning.  Better taken before bedtime if used at all."

3

Anti-Hypertensives

Woman lying at bed.
Shutterstock

Dr. Majlesi explains, "Anti-hypertensives such as beta blockers and calcium channel blockers," should be avoided during the day. "Taking these before bedtime may provide some cardiovascular benefits.  And one of the side effects is often fatigue.  So taking these in the morning may perpetuate that effect."

4

Cholesterol Medications

older woman taking pill or supplement
Shutterstock / fizkes

"Cholesterol medications seem to be better taken in the evening considering it is believed most cholesterol is formed in the very early morning.," says Dr. Majlesi.

5

Allergy Medications

Woman holding a pill in her hand.
Shutterstock

Dr. Majlesi emphasizes, "Generally most of these will make people drowsy. Taking them before bedtime makes sense to avoid many of the unwanted side effects during the day." 

Heather Newgen
Heather Newgen has two decades of experience reporting and writing about health, fitness, entertainment and travel. Heather currently freelances for several publications. Read more about Heather
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