Even if You Miss the Time for Hypertension Medication, Take Only One Dose... Consume Stew and Ramen in Moderation

MFDS Provides Guidance on Hypertension Medication Usage for 'World Hypertension Day' on May 17

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] Hypertension medication should be taken only once even if you miss the scheduled time. Since consuming a lot of salt can raise blood pressure, it is advisable to consume salty foods in moderation.

On the 17th, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety provided guidance on the proper way to take hypertension medication in observance of 'World Hypertension Day.'

Hypertension refers to a condition where blood pressure remains consistently high. It is defined as systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg or higher, or diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher.

Hypertension is difficult to cure naturally, so most patients require medication. If hypertension is not controlled, it can cause complications in the heart, brain, kidneys, and other organs. Therefore, it is important to regularly measure and manage blood pressure even when there are no specific symptoms.

Hypertension medications are classified according to their mechanism of action into ▲diuretics that lower blood pressure by promoting water excretion ▲sympathetic nervous system blockers that inhibit neurotransmitters causing vasoconstriction and increased heart rate ▲calcium channel blockers that dilate blood vessels by blocking calcium channels in heart cell membranes ▲angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors that suppress the production of vasoconstrictors ▲angiotensin II receptor blockers.

Hypertension medication should be taken at the prescribed time. If you miss the time, take it as soon as you realize it, or if the next dose is near, take it then. However, even if the time has passed, only one dose should be taken, and the dosage should not be increased.

Since excessive salt intake can raise blood pressure, it is recommended to consume salty foods such as kimchi, stews, salted seafood, and ramen in moderation. When taking calcium channel blockers like 'Amlodipine,' grapefruit or grapefruit juice should not be consumed one hour before or within two hours after taking the medication, as grapefruit increases the calcium channel blocking effect.

Diuretic-containing hypertension medications are recommended to be taken in the morning because taking them at night may interfere with sleep.

Hypertension during pregnancy can be dangerous for both the mother and fetus, so selective medication use may be necessary. In particular, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and angiotensin II receptor blockers are prohibited during pregnancy and should be used with caution.

Additionally, patients with angioedema are prohibited from taking angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers, and patients with asthma or severe bradycardia should not take beta-blockers among sympathetic nervous system blockers.

Patients with electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia or gout should be cautious when taking diuretic hypertension medications.

Side effects vary depending on the type of hypertension medication. ▲Calcium channel blockers may cause edema and facial flushing ▲Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors may cause dry cough ▲Angiotensin II receptor blockers may cause indigestion, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If side effects occur, it is advisable to consult a doctor to adjust the dosage or switch to a medication with a different ingredient.