It is not recommended to take medication at 11 PM. At 11 PM, the body's functions have entered a state of rest. Taking medication at this time can increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract and is not conducive to digestion. The time for taking different medications varies. Commonly, medications that are stimulating to the gastrointestinal tract should be taken after meals to reduce their irritant effect on the gastrointestinal tract.
Can medication be taken at 11 PM? From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine, after 10 PM, all organs of the human body have entered a state of rest and self-repair under the regulation of the biological clock. At this time, not only should medications not be taken, but eating is also discouraged. Taking medication or eating at this time can increase the burden on the stomach and intestines, disrupt endocrine function, and normal bodily operations. If medication is taken at 11 PM, when gastrointestinal function is weakened, it can lead to prolonged retention of the medication in the gastrointestinal tract. If the medication taken is highly irritating, it can not only hinder digestion but also cause insomnia, adversely affecting sleep.
When is the best time to take medication? Taking medication before meals refers to ingesting it 30 to 60 minutes before eating. This is primarily to allow the medication to enter the intestine quickly, facilitating absorption by the intestine and reducing the adverse impact of food on its bioavailability. Medications taken before meals include hypoglycemic agents, gastric motility agents, gastric mucosa protectants, and antidiarrheals. Taking medication after meals refers to ingesting it about 30 minutes after eating, which can reduce the irritation of medications on the gastrointestinal tract and facilitate their absorption and utilization. Most medications can be taken after meals. Medications taken after meals include anti-inflammatories, digestives, antacids, anti-inflammatory analgesics, and vitamins. Taking medication during meals means ingesting it shortly after starting to eat and continuing to eat after finishing the medication. This is mainly because the oils in food can aid in the absorption of medications, allowing them to exert their effects promptly. Medications taken during meals include those that can exert their effects promptly, such as digestives. Taking medication before sleep refers to ingesting it 15 to 30 minutes before bedtime. Medications taken before sleep include laxatives and hypnotics.
