International travel - medication

[Jaycey]

I am planning a trip to the US next year. After angioplasty and 3 stents I now have to take medication daily. Question: when you travel to a different time zone do you switch your medication time or try and stay with your home schedule. The time difference will be 8 hours.

Thanks for your input!

[LHDLondon]

I've always been advised to leave a minimum of 9 hours between meds and on that basis when travelling I adopt the local times with that in mind. It's overdosing which is to be avoided, an hour or two later than normal won't harm. When you come back, I'd suggest bearing that 9hrs in mind.

[Jaycey in reply to LHDLondon]

Interesting - I've never heard about the 9 hour gap. But you are right - the tendency would be to overdose. Thanks!

[Andyman]

I used to just switch to the new time zone when I travelled. I was travelling regularly once a month to China and Canada. I never experienced any problems. Ramapril Statin asprin clopidogrol and metformin. But if you are worries then really you should consult your GP.

[2stents]

Hi

I travel to the USA every year to see my family and just change taking my meds to there time zone, I have never had a problem

[stevejb1810]

I always switch to local time - it's just less confusing to keep to the routine you had at home. For the day you actually travel, try to adjust the timings to make the dosing as even as possible to avoid the very small chance of overdose. Make sure you drink LOTS of water on the flight as well - its important to keep very well hydrated. Have a great holiday