We have long flight from the Pacific NW US to Athens via Frankfurt . I take multiple meds 4 times a day. Some before food some on completely empty stomach. Have had the blessings of my specialists to enjoy my trip. I find the online medication time zone sites useless and hard to use. I am having a hard time wrapping my head around when to take them since Athens is 10 hours ahead of Pacific time. Any good solid advice or apps that could actually be helpful?
Posted by
Adelaide, Australia
70 posts
Hi Robin, I would recommend that you seek advice from your pharmacist or your doctor, they will be able to give advice specific to your medications and the reasons for which they have been prescribed for you. I am a retired nurse, but I still check for the latest and most reliable professional information when it comes to medication and health related questions. Hope that you have a great trip.
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
16812 posts
I am in agreement with Helen. Go in and talk with your pharmacist even if you have to make an appointment. You want the pharmacist and not a tech (and not meaning that the techs aren't capable or that they don't work hard!) so you can make sure they understand your dilemma regarding timing and food. It would be helpful if your pharmacist is a traveler, too, hahaha! Can't guarantee that.
Take a notepad with you so you can take notes.
Posted by
Snohomish, WA
3820 posts
I agree, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. That said, my doctor said to just stay on the same schedule. So like if I take something at breakfast here, do it here and then at breakfast there. She said for what I take that is fine and makes it easier on me.
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
9238 posts
Yes, speak with your pharmacist. What you want to know is if any of the meds have a strict minimum time between doses. Normally 4 times a day means when you wake, near noon, late afternoon, then before bed, with a longer span as you sleep. (Meaning it is unlikely you were told to wake during the night to take meds, though that can happen)
As long as you watch the minimum time between doses, the best is usually to just adjust to the new time zone, keeping to the same schedule you use at home.
Posted by
San Diego, California
6915 posts
I have a Health feature in my I-Phone, which reminds me to take meds when I'm home. With my upcoming trip, I'm hoping those reminders will help me ease into the new time zones. If nothing else, at least I won't completely forget. Good luck and safe travels!
Posted by
Ontario, Canada
170 posts
Talk to your pharmacist- for this type of discussion they will have more knowledge than a physician. I'm a retired nurse so know of what I'm saying.
Posted by
Alberta
758 posts
I agree with the others to check with your pharmacist or your physician, but wanted to add a couple of pieces. I work in a clinic so quite often help patients with this. The big question is it better for you to have the dose a few hours sooner vs having it delayed by a few hours. This is going to depend on the type of drug, reason you are taking and if you are close to the maximum dosing.
For example, for our patients unless they are at maximum dosing, it is more important to have it sooner, so we tell them to take it as soon as they wake up on the plane, and then at the new time. By day 2 you will be taking them on Athen's time, so I would be asking if you should be taking it 4 times a day that first day ( squishing the times together) or dropping to 3 times the first day in Athens
On the way back we may add in a dose. But for your health needs it may be different, so please check.
I would also add, this is a good time to consider a dosette. With jet lag and a changed routine it can be extra hard to remember if you took them at all!