In a recent appearance on BBC Morning Live, Dr Punam Krishan delivered crucial advice for patients receiving new prescriptions, emphasising the importance of proactive communication with healthcare providers. The doctor outlined a comprehensive list of eleven essential questions that individuals should always pose to their general practitioner when prescribed medication, aiming to enhance patient safety and understanding.
Never Stop Medication Abruptly
Dr Krishan issued a stern warning against one particularly dangerous practice: discontinuing medication without professional guidance. She stressed that patients should never cease taking their prescribed drugs if they experience side effects, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms or other complications. Instead, she urged individuals to consult their GP or pharmacist immediately for advice on managing any adverse reactions.
Key Questions to Ask Your GP
The doctor provided a structured list of inquiries that patients should make to ensure they fully comprehend their treatment. These questions are designed to cover all critical aspects of medication use, from purpose to administration and potential side effects.
Understanding the Medicine
- What is this medication for? Clarify the specific condition or symptoms it aims to treat.
- How does it work? Gain insight into the mechanism of action within the body.
- How long will it take to start working? Set realistic expectations for the timeline of effectiveness.
- How can I tell if it is working? Identify signs of improvement or lack thereof.
Proper Application and Dosage
- How often should I take it? Adhere to the correct frequency to maintain efficacy.
- When should I take it? Determine optimal times, such as with meals or at specific hours.
- Should it be taken with food or water? Follow instructions to avoid gastrointestinal issues or reduced absorption.
- What should I do if I miss a dose? Learn the appropriate steps to take without doubling up or skipping.
Side Effects and Management
- Does this medication have any common side effects? Be aware of potential reactions to anticipate.
- What should I do if I experience side effects? Understand when to seek help or adjust usage.
- Should I stop taking it if side effects occur? Reinforce the importance of consulting a professional before making changes.
Accessible Resources and Support
Dr Krishan acknowledged that patients often misplace or lose the informational leaflets accompanying medications. To address this, she highlighted the NHS website's dedicated medicines A to Z page, which provides comprehensive details on side effects and usage for any drug. Additionally, she reminded viewers that pharmacists and GPs are readily available to answer queries and concerns.
For those with visual impairments, the doctor noted that patient information must be accessible under MHRA regulations. This includes availability in Braille, large print, or audio formats upon request, ensuring equitable access to vital health information.
Tracking and Emergency Response
Dr Krishan advised patients to track mild symptoms by noting their occurrence relative to medication intake. However, she emphasised that severe reactions—such as intense vomiting, rashes, or anaphylaxis—require immediate emergency medical attention. This distinction helps patients differentiate between manageable side effects and urgent health threats.
By fostering open dialogue and utilising available resources, patients can navigate their medication regimens with greater confidence and safety, ultimately improving health outcomes and reducing risks associated with prescription use.
