How Can I Get Off My Medication?

How Can I Get Off My Medication?

It’s a frequently asked question at Stay Well Pharmacy, and a fair question too. Maybe they don’t like a particular side effect of the drug they are on, or they don't like the idea of being reliant on a medication for the rest of their lives.

Before going any further, we have to say that medicines are complex, and everyone needs their own individual treatment plan. There are very real risks to reducing or to stop taking medication prematurely, or without a plan in place. Our naturopathic pharmacist Mark is a specialist in medicine management. He can advise you on the risks around taking or not taking different medications, and can work in consultation with your doctor to give you the best medical advice.

What's Your Medication Plan?

“When people ask me ‘how can I get off my medication?’ My first question is, ‘so what are you going to do instead?’” says naturopathic pharmacist Mark Webster. “Unfortunately, most people haven’t thought that far ahead.

“All medications usually have several actions inside our body. Reducing or cutting the amount of medication you’re taking entirely will also have an impact. Before adjusting the medication plan you’ve been prescribed, you need a personalised treatment plan in place to manage those reactions,” he says.

“Some of my clients are convinced they will never get off their medication because they simply stopped taking it without seeking medical advice. Some people were ok for a day or two, some for a week, but ultimately their bodies suffered when the effects hit home,” says Mark.

Dealing With Indigestion

Indigestion pills are a common cause for complaint. In many cases they take pills in reaction to the feelings of indigestion or heartburn, or as a preventative measure to stop the pain from happening.

“In a private consultation, we’ll look at the reasons around why you’re taking your heartburn medication. We’ll look at your diet, your levels of physical activity, and any other medications you might also be taking,” says Mark.

“Some people didn’t realise they had dietary allergies,” says Mark. “Commonly cutting gluten, dairy, or a specific food from their diet also removed their need to keep taking the indigestion tablets.”

Improving Mental Health

Another common reason people come to see Mark is around anti-depressants. In a private consultation, Mark can work with you to find the best way to right the chemical imbalance, and ease the effects of your depression.

While Mark has helped many people reduce their dosage, or eliminate their need to take regular medication altogether, there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

“Some people will always need their prescription medication,” says Mark. “For others, what they need to do to counteract the effects of not taking their medicine will be too much. This is why it’s so important to get a personalised treatment plan from a qualified medical professional. And if I can work with your medical practitioner, even better"

Want Medication Advice?

Are you sick and tired of nasty side effects? Do you want to reduce your reliance on prescription medication or just make sure you have all the options available to you? Seek qualified medical advice. Book a one-on-one consultation with Stay Well Man Mark Webster at Stay Well Pharmacy on 03 349 8785.

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