Starting a New Medication

What steps should be taken before you start on a new medication?

Learn about the critical role you and your doctor play in prescription selection and administration.

It is very daunting when you walk into a doctor’s rooms and you’re prescribed a new medication. There are always so many thoughts running through your head and your mind goes blank. You usually leave feeling like you should have asked more about the medication and how it will effect you. This is a normal reaction.

Just as knowledge about fibromyalgia is important, so is knowledge of the medications you may need to treat it. There are tips to help you remind yourself what to ask your doctor and pharmacist and there are important reasons why you need to ask these questions. Let’s explore them.

Firstly, knowing a little about how a drug works will help you determine if the medication is working and alleviating your symptoms. The miracle of the internet gives people access to a wealth of information on most drugs, though you should ensure you take your cues from reliable sources and always discuss your findings with your doctors.

 

Secondly, knowing the common side effects of a medication makes it easier for your doctor to determine the correct drug for you. Having the list of drugs you already take will help your doctor check for drug interactions before prescribing a new drug.

Some interactions mean that the drugs cannot be used together at all. More often, however, the combination can still be used, but one or both of the doses needs to be adjusted (either up or down, depending on how the drugs interact). Drug interactions are considered by your doctor and verified by your pharmacist.

Finally, the time a drug is important for a few reasons. Some drugs need to be taken away from food for optimum absorption while others need to be taken after food to avoid stomach upsets. Not taking your medications at the right time could set back your recovery. Do not take this simple suggestion lightly.

Here are a few helpful hints to ease you through the medicine maze:

• Carry a card in your purse or wallet listing your medications, their strengths and how many times a day you take them.

• Always keep in mind that while vitamin supplements and herbs are natural, they can also interact with a medication that your doctor prescribes. Make sure to add them to the list of medications you are currently taking, remember to include the strength, frequence of dosing and if possible the botanical name of the supplement

• Keep a list of questions on hand to ask your doctor or pharmacist.

• Remember if you think you are going to need extra time with your doctor, make sure to book a longer consultation so he/she can spend more time with you.

• Make sure you always ask for information about new medication.

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist is there anything important you should know about the new drug.

• Find out how long it will be before you notice any improvements after commencement of a new medication.

• Ask when you should revisit the doctor for a review.

• Make sure when you leave the doctor’s rooms you are happy with the information you have received.

• Always ask questions of the pharmacist regarding when the medication should be taken and what side effects are commonly experienced.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

 

* Remember, you are in charge of your health and being well informed is an important tool in empowering yourself against fibromyalgia and other disease states.

* Never be afraid to ask questions or request written information.

* This is your right as a patient. Knowledge equals power!

About the Author:

Marnie-Louise Turnbull is a practicing Pharmacist with over twenty years experience. She holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree as well as a Post Graduate Diploma in Nutritional Pharmacy. She is a member of various pharmacy societies and endeavors to keep her knowledge up to date with continuing education. Also visit http://www.nps.org.au