What Does “Every 8 Hours” Mean?
“Take every 8 hours” means the doses should generally be spaced about 8 hours apart.
This usually results in three doses over a 24-hour period.
Is “Every 8 Hours” the Same as “Three Times Daily”?
Not always.
“Every 8 hours” focuses on keeping a fairly even interval between doses.
“Three times daily” may sometimes be scheduled during waking hours instead.
The exact instructions depend on the medicine.
Do You Need to Take It During the Night?
Sometimes.
If a medicine truly needs to be taken every 8 hours around the clock, one dose may fall during the night.
For other medicines, the prescriber may intend a daytime schedule.
If the label is unclear, ask your pharmacist.
Can You Take the Doses Closer Together?
Usually, you should not take doses much closer together than directed.
Taking doses too close together can increase the amount of medicine in your body and may raise the risk of side effects.
What If You Take a Dose Late?
The best next step depends on the medicine and how late the dose is.
Do not automatically double a dose or take two doses close together.
Check the medication instructions or ask a pharmacist.
What Does “Every 8 Hours as Needed” Mean?
This generally means you may take a dose when needed, but you should wait at least 8 hours before taking another dose.
You do not necessarily need to take the medicine every 8 hours if you do not need it.
Does Food Affect the Schedule?
It may.
Some medicines also have instructions such as:
- Take with food
- Take on an empty stomach
- Take with plenty of water
- Avoid certain foods or drinks
Follow all of the medication directions together.
When to Ask a Pharmacist
Ask your pharmacist if:
- You are unsure whether doses need to be taken overnight
- You are not sure how to space the doses
- You miss or delay a dose
- You accidentally take doses too close together
- The prescription directions are unclear
Sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) — Using Medicines Safely
- MedlinePlus — Drug Information
- DailyMed — Official U.S. Drug Label Information