Ramadan Mubarak to everyone observing.
As Ramadan approaches, we recognise that many people will be thinking carefully about how fasting fits alongside their health, wellbeing, and any medication they are prescribed.
At Wirral Ways, we want to reassure you that your health always comes first. We are here to support you to make informed, culturally respectful decisions about medication, substance use, and fasting during Ramadan.
Why medication matters during Ramadan
Ramadan involves fasting from dawn until sunset, which means nothing is taken by mouth during daylight hours. Many medicines are taken orally and work best when they are taken at regular, evenly spaced times. Changing or stopping medication suddenly can reduce how well it works or increase side effects.
Islam places strong importance on protecting health and wellbeing. People who are unwell are exempt from fasting, and alternatives such as Fidya (charitable giving) can be observed instead. Mental health and substance use treatment are included in this, and no one should feel pressured to stop important medication.
General guidance on medicines and fasting
Based on NHS and specialist guidance:
- Tablets, capsules and liquids should not usually be taken during fasting hours but can often be taken before dawn (suhoor) and after sunset (iftar).
- Injections (including depot injections), patches, eye drops and ear drops are generally considered acceptable during fasting hours.
- Blood tests are allowed and may still be needed for certain medications.
- Some medicines can be switched to once-daily or modified-release versions to make fasting safer, but this must always be done with medical advice.
- Stopping or changing smoking habits during Ramadan can affect how some medicines work, so this should also be discussed with a professional.
You should never stop medication without advice. Planning ahead is key, ideally before Ramadan begins.
This information is based on NHS-approved guidance on Ramadan and medicines handyfactsheetramadanuk
Medication we prescribe at Wirral Ways
Wirral Ways prescribes a range of medications to support people with substance use, including opioid substitution treatment and other clinically indicated medicines.
If you are prescribed medication through Wirral Ways and are considering fasting:
- We can review dose timings with you.
- Where appropriate, we can explore alternative formulations.
- We can liaise with pharmacists, GPs, and specialist prescribers to support safe adjustments.
- We will always respect your faith, values, and personal choices while prioritising your health and safety.
A culturally sensitive approach to support
We understand that conversations about medication, substance use, and Ramadan can feel personal and sensitive. Our approach is:
- Non-judgemental and respectful
- Led by your choices and beliefs
- Focused on partnership and informed decision-making
You can ask to speak privately with a practitioner, prescriber, or recovery worker to talk through your options.
Working with Wirral Change and Wirral Multicultural Centre
We work closely with Wirral Change and Wirral Multicultural Centre to ensure support is accessible, culturally informed, and joined up.
- Wirral Change supports people and families affected by substance use, with a strong focus on community-based and culturally aware support.
- Wirral Multicultural Centre works with diverse communities across Wirral, supporting inclusion, wellbeing, and access to services.
Both organisations have a substance misuse link worker, and we work closely together to:
- Support people from diverse cultural and faith backgrounds
- Reduce barriers to accessing treatment
- Ensure communication is clear, respectful, and appropriate
- Provide joined-up support during Ramadan and beyond
Getting advice and support
If you are thinking about fasting during Ramadan and are on medication, we encourage you to:
- Speak to your Wirral Ways worker or prescriber
- Talk to your pharmacist or GP
- Seek faith-based guidance from an Imam, Sheikh or Muslim chaplain if helpful to you
You are not alone in navigating this, and support is always available.
If you would like to talk to us about medication, Ramadan, or substance use support, please contact Wirral Ways or speak to a member of your care team.
Last Updated on 16 February 2026