Taking aspirin at bedtime best for lowering blood pressure

Taking a low dosage aspirin at bedtime, rather than in the morning, is a more effective way of controlling blood pressure, avoiding hypertension and avoiding the future risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.

Spanish researchers studied 328 people with untreated hypertension and split them into three groups, with one group given a healthier diet and lifestyle, a second given low dosage aspirin as well in the mornings, and a third group given the aspirin at bedtime.

For two days at the beginning and end of the three month trial blood pressure measurements were taken throughout the day. 

The average blood pressure for those who took the bedtime aspirin dropped significantly, compared to those who took it in the mornings or not at all.

Dr Ramon C Hermida, of the University of Vigo in Spain, said the findings could change how doctors advised their patients in taking aspirin, and this could lead to better treatment of mild hypertension.

But he advised that patients who had been diagnosed with mild hypertension should check with their own doctors on medication first.