Fiqh Question, Medication in Ramadan – Is it better to fast and break, or not fast at all?Category: QuestionsFiqh Question, Medication in Ramadan – Is it better to fast and break, or not fast at all?
Ahmed asked 1 week ago

Asalaamu-alaikum,
 
I take medication for Diabetes in order to control my health and avoid complications with other risk factors related to heart, eyes, and other health issues that Diabetes affects. When I take medication but do not eat, I experience hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) which results in sweats, shaking, and a physical need to consume food. It\’s the body\’s natural response requiring sugar immediately in order to continue functioning, so consuming food during a low blood sugar episode is vital for survival. I could take my medications early before Fajr, but there is a chance my sugars may crash during the day. There is also a chance my sugars may remain stable throughout the day. I am confused as to how I should approach Ramadan fasting. 
 
As it pertains to fiqh, is there one alternative preferred over another? – Is it permissible to take my medications before Fajr and fast with intention, but break my fast only if my sugars get too low, or is it permissible to not fast the days of Ramadan and continue taking medications as normal? In short, is it worse to break a fast, or not fast at all?
 
Thank you for taking time to read this, and offering your advice. May Allah (swt) accept your Ramadan and bless you continuously.

1 Answers
Fiqh Department Staff answered 1 week ago

بِسْمِ ٱللَّٰهِ ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ
السلام عليكم ورحمة الله وبركاته
As Salaamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh,
We pray this message finds you in the best of health and highest of Iman.
We apologize for the late response and pray Allah (swt) grants you good health.
The right action in this case is to take the medication before Fajr. If the sugar levels drop badly, you can break your fast. However, if that situation occurs repeatedly, you should not fast.