Medicine Sick Day Rules
When you are feeling unwell and experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- vomiting or diarrhea (unless only minor),
- fever, sweats, and shaking,
it is important to follow the Medicine Sick Day Rules. These rules will guide you on which medications to stop taking temporarily and when to restart them after your recovery. If you have any doubts or questions, please reach out to your pharmacist, general practitioner (GP), or nurse for further guidance.
During your illness, it is crucial to stop the following medications listed below. However, remember to restart them only after you have fully recovered and have been eating and drinking normally for a period of 24 to 48 hours.
Medicines to Stop on Sick Days
ACE
Inhibitors
Ramipril
Captopril
Enalapril
Fosinopril
Imidapril
Lisinopril
Moexipril
Perindopril
Quinapril
Trandolapril
ARBs
(Angiotensin II receptor blockers)
Losartan
Candesartan
Eprosartan
Irbesartan
Olmesartan
Telmisartan
Valsartan
Azilsartan
Oral NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
Ibuprofen
Diclofenac
Indometacin
Ketoprofen
Mefenamic acid
Meloxicam
Nabumetone
Naproxen
Piroxicam
Sulindac
Tenoxicam
Tiaprofenic acid
Etodolac
Etoricoxib
Felbinac
Fenoprofen
Flurbiprofen
Aceclofenac
Acemetacin
Celecoxib
Dexibuprofen
Dexketoprofen
High dose aspirin
Diuretics (commonly known as "water pills")
Bumetanide
Co-amilofruse
Co-amilozide
Co-flumactone
Eplerenone
Furosemide
Torasemide
Mannitol
Indapamide
Hydrochlorothiazide
Amiloride
Spironolactone
Bendroflumethiazide
Triamterene
Chlortalidone
Co-triamterzide
Cyclopenthiazide
Metolazone
Xipamide
Some Diabetes Medicines
Metformin
Canagliflozin
Dapagliflozin
Empagliflozin
Ertugliflozin
Important Notice
Remember, if you have any uncertainty about whether or not to stop taking a specific medication, it is best to consult your pharmacist, GP, or nurse for further guidance.
Your healthcare provider can provide personalised advice based on your specific circumstances and medical history.
