Being a non-muslim living in Malaysia, I'm often amazed at the devotion of my fellow Muslim friends who adhere strictly to the fasting rules. Fasting is a form of worship, spiritual discipline, and also a great way to empathize with those who are in need. I used to think that fasting only involved foods and drinks, and only realised that it extended to many more facets of life when I started my profession as a pharmacist.
Medications are vital to most of us in maintaining a good health. Chronic medications such as antidiabetics, antihypertensives and cholesterol lowering drugs are required to be taken daily. So, how does one navigate this during this holy fasting month? Also, there are multiple forms of medications aside from the usual tablets and pills. Do they invalidate fast? Let's dive into this crucial topic so that you are equipped with the knowledge to educate those around you.
Let's start with medications which do / do not invalidate fast. Here is a list for you:
DO NOT INVALIDATE FAST
- Eye drops or ear drops
- Tablets that are required to be placed beneath the tongue but not swallowed
- Mouthwash or medicinal spray for the mouth (not swallowed)
- Nasal spray (not inhaled)
- Having dental procedures performed, including extractions, filling, scaling and brushing of the teeth. Given that no substance is swallowed during this time.
- All types of injections either through layers of skin, muscles, joints or blood vessels.
- Bandages, plasters, ointment and creams
- Haemorrhoids cream without involving the deep parts of the anus
DO INVALIDATE FAST (TAKE OUTSIDE OF FASTING PERIOD)
- Tablets or syrup that is to be swallowed
- Inhalers for asthma or lung diseases
- Vaginal inspection or medicine
- Insertion of a catheter in the urinary tract for men or women
During the fasting period, timing of medications is also important to avoid underdosage. As this can differ not only from drug to drug, but also people to people, it is crucial that one practise proper administration. This table by Homage is very useful to help us visualise:
Once the fasting period is over, you may return to your normal dosing schedule. If you are worried about your medication intake, do not hesitate to reach out to your local doctor or pharmacist. I have met patients who withhold their medications because of doubt, and this led to unnecessary health implications.
So, as always folks, stay healthy and wishing all who are fasting, Selamat Berpuasa!
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