Medication
DEALING WITH LONG TERM MEDICATION
MANAGING YOUR MEDICATION
There are many different types of medication and reasons why medication is part of people’s day-to-day life. Taking medication may not be easy, it may disrupt your day or mean you feel different to your friends or family. If you are finding it hard to manage your medication it may be a good idea to talk to someone about how you are feeling. This may be a friend, family member, counselor or your local doctor. There are a number of things you may want to consider if you are taking medications.
CONSULTING YOUR DOCTOR
It is likely that you will be seeing a medical specialist who will oversee the management of your medication. It is a good idea to talk with them if you have any problems or questions about the medication you are taking. If you are finding it difficult to talk to your doctor or psychiatrist you may want to look at finding someone else. Talk to us at YHES House to explore your range of options.
KNOWING YOUR MEDICATION
Knowing the details of your medication is important. This means knowing both the brand and generic names for your medication and your dosage. There may be times when you have to tell other people what medication you are on, for example if you are in an accident or if you are consulting another health professional for other medical reasons. It may be a good idea to have your details in your wallet.
MEDICATION AND PREGNANCY
It is recommended that you don’t take certain medications when you are pregnant. If you are planning a pregnancy or are pregnant it is a good idea to talk with your doctor about your medication.
MEDICATION AND TRAVELING
Managing your medication while you are away from home is important. Your doctor should be able to help you manage your medication routine and make sure that you are not affected by the changing of time zones. Checking you have enough medication while you are away may also be important.
STICKING WITH YOUR MEDICATION
Staying with the routine of taking your medication may be hard. It can sometimes be tempting to stop taking your medication when you feel good. It may be that the medication is helping you to feel good. It is not recommended to stop taking your medication without talking to your doctor or psychiatrist.
SIDE EFFECTS
Medication affects everybody differently. It is recommended that you talk to your doctor or psychiatrist about how the medication may affect you. There are things that you should not do while taking the medication. For example, with some medication it is recommended that other drugs or alcohol not be taken with the medication.
Emergency Services:
Police, Fire or Ambulance (EMERGENCY ONLY) – 000
Poisons Information – 13 11 25
Life Line – 13 11 14
For more information follow these links:
Dr. Yes - Youth Clinic
Yahoo Health - Drug Guide
Drugs.com
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