Understand how Ramadan fasting affects health and medications

Ramadan is the Islamic month in which Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset:

• Ramadan fasting involves abstaining from all oral intake, including medications
• If Muslims are ill, they are exempt from fasting, but many choose to fast for several reasons, including connection to family
• Those unable to fast during Ramadan may elect to make up days when they are well or donate to a charity
• In 2026, Ramadan is expected to start around February 16th and end around March 18th

Know why Ramadan matters for patient care

Understanding about Ramadan is important because the following changes can impact patients' health:

• Eating habits
• Hydration
• Sleep pattern
• Medication timing

Plan for common changes during Ramadan

Austin Health Muslim patients may wish to fast for Ramadan:

• During this time, some may not want to take medications between sunrise and sunset
• Many patients with comorbidities may want to fast to celebrate their family traditions and practice their Muslim faith

Dietetics, Food Services & Pharmacy are collaborating to support our Muslim patients observe Ramadan fasting should they wish to, & where it is medically feasible, during their hospital stay.

Ask patients early about fasting and review their medications

Consider asking your Muslim patients whether they fast for Ramadan, and which medications are acceptable for them to take; help them avoid medication doses between sunrise and sunset if that is their wish and if it is feasible.

What Austin Health research shows

A 2021 study found that almost half of Muslim patients surveyed fasted for some or all of Ramadan 2021:

• Many patients made changes to their medication regimen to allow them to fast, without input from a healthcare professional.
• Some experienced adverse effects from these medication changes
• Some patients said they would like their healthcare professional to partner with them to better manage their medications during Ramadan