Page 50 - Harnett Life Spring 2019

Medication Wellness:

By: Dr. Veronica L. Hardy

Asking the

Right Questions

As a mental health professional, I have engaged with several persons who have been prescribed various types of medica-
tion. When asked whether they knew the purpose of the medication and the side effects, the answer I usually came across
was “no, I was only told it would help me sleep better” or “help me with stress” or …. Whenever prescribed medication,
it is critical to take the following steps to obtain knowledge about the medication prescribed and to monitor the effects.

1. Ask Questions
When you are prescribed a new medication, be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist specific questions including: What
is the purpose of this medication? How will it affect me? How long will it take for me to feel the desired effects? What
are the side effects? What symptoms might I experience? How will this medication interact with my current medications?

2. Keep a Record
Maintain an ongoing record of your medication use and the side effects. This information is important during your doctor
visits and to increase your awareness of any negative symptoms that may have been triggered since you began taking the
medication.

3. Increase Your Knowledge
Most companies that manufacture medications have a website you can visit to obtain further information. In addition, be
sure to read any pamphlets that come with your medication. Finally, always read the labels on your medication bottle.
Always remember, that you have a lot of decision-making ability regarding your health. Therefore, be sure to increase
your knowledge about what you are putting into your body. Take the steps necessary that include asking questions, keep-
ing a record, and increasing your knowledge.

Page 50 Harnett Life ~ Spring 2019