7 Reasons to Review Your Medications with Your Doctor

Taking medications is not a one-time event. It's essential to regularly review your prescriptions with your doctor to ensure they are still safe and effective for your health needs. Even if you've been taking the same medications for years, changes in your health or the introduction of new drugs may require adjustments to your regimen.

According to Dr. Suzanne Salamon, a geriatrician and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, "We are required to do a medication 'check-up' at every visit, regardless of the specialty, which means that every clinician who sees you is supposed to review your medications and check off a box." However, sometimes things change between visits, and it's up to you to schedule an appointment for a medication review.

When to Schedule a Medication Review

Here are seven reasons why you may need to schedule a medication review with your doctor:

1. New Symptoms or Side Effects: If you experience any new or worsening symptoms or side effects after starting a new medication or changing the dose of an existing one, it's essential to inform your doctor promptly.

2. Changes in Your Health: If you've been diagnosed with a new health condition, had surgery, or experienced significant changes in your health status, your medications may need to be adjusted accordingly.

3. Taking Multiple Medications: The more medications you take, the higher the risk of drug interactions and adverse effects. Regular reviews can help identify and prevent potential problems.

4. Aging: As you age, your body's ability to process and respond to medications may change, requiring dose adjustments or alternative treatments.

5. Lifestyle Changes: If you've made significant changes to your diet, exercise routine, or other lifestyle factors, your medications may need to be re-evaluated.

6. Difficulty Managing Medications: If you're having trouble remembering to take your medications or experiencing difficulty swallowing pills, your doctor may be able to simplify your regimen or suggest alternative forms of medication.

7. Annual Check-Up: Even if you haven't experienced any changes or problems with your medications, it's a good idea to review them with your doctor at least once a year during your annual check-up.

What to Expect During a Medication Review

During a medication review, your doctor will:

• Review all the medications you're currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements

• Check for any potential drug interactions or adverse effects

• Assess whether your medications are still appropriate and effective for your current health needs

• Discuss any concerns or questions you may have about your medications

• Make any necessary adjustments to your medication regimen, such as changing doses, stopping certain drugs, or prescribing new medications

It's essential to be open and honest with your doctor about all the medications you're taking, including any you may have obtained from other sources or started taking on your own. Bringing a list of all your current medications, along with their doses and frequency, can help ensure a thorough and accurate review.

Remember, your medication regimen is not set in stone. Regular reviews with your doctor can help ensure that your prescriptions are still safe, effective, and appropriate for your current health needs. If you've experienced any changes or concerns about your medications, don't hesitate to schedule a review with your doctor today.

For more information on medication safety and managing your prescriptions, visit:

• FDA: Medication Safety Tips for Older Adults

• American Family Physician: Deprescribing Medications in Older Adults

• Consumer Reports: How to Avoid Common Medication Mistakes