Can I Take Anxiety Medication Based on An Online Doctor’s Prescription?
Shafi'i Fiqh
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
I experience anxiety with physical symptoms such as shaky hands, blushing, and an increased heart rate. Beta-blockers, typically used to treat high blood pressure, are sometimes prescribed for anxiety as well. I have read about their potential effectiveness in managing anxiety symptoms.
Is it permissible to use this medication if prescribed through an online portal, such as an online doctor service like www.zavamed.com? I provided all necessary patient data truthfully and was transparent about my condition.
I intend to use the medication on an as-needed basis for situations I know will be stressful.
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate. May Allah alleviate our difficulties and guide us to what pleases Him. Amin.
The Shafi‘i School encourages seeking medical treatment and using permissible means to address health concerns. When prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional, medication is generally permissible if it serves a legitimate medical purpose and its use accords with Islamic principles.
The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said: “Allah has sent down the disease and the cure and has made the cure for every disease. So, treat sickness, but do not use anything unlawful” [Abu Dawud, 3376]
Shafi’i School on Medication
According to the Shafi’i School, seeking medical treatment is recommended (mustahabb) when the outcome is uncertain about its effectiveness. However, when the benefits of the treatment are assured, such as applying a dressing to a wound, it becomes obligatory (wajib). A comparable instance illustrating this obligation is the need for blood transfusions in certain medical scenarios. [Nawawi, Rawda al-Talibin]
Online Doctors
Regarding obtaining a prescription through an online portal, it is crucial to ensure the legitimacy and reliability of the service. If the online doctor is licensed and reputable, and you have provided accurate information about your condition, seeking a prescription through such a platform may be acceptable.
Nevertheless, consulting with a local Muslim healthcare professional who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation is recommended, especially because you are in doubt.
Considering the nature of the medication, the online prescription process, and your health needs, I would advise an in-person consultation for this instance, and Allah knows best.
I pray this is of benefit and that Allah guides us all.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan (Allah have mercy on him), where he taught.
Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Shaykh Muhammad Awama, Shaykh Muhammad Hasan Hitu, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.
He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has been the Director of the Discover Islam Centre, and for six years, he has been the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.
Shaykh Irshaad has fifteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town). He is currently building an Islamic podcast, education, and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy Prophetic living and fitness.
