Talking to Your Doctor About Alternative Approaches
The medicine your doctor prescribed for you plays a major role in your treatment. But sometimes, people look for other ways to treat their symptoms. For example, there has been a lot of talk about megavitamins and other natural products to treat the symptoms of mental illness. Some people may find them helpful, but you might have some problems if you switch from your regular medicine to an alternative medicine.
- Some medicines might cause dangerous side effects if you stop taking them suddenly
- Some alternative medicines may not work for you, and your symptoms may return if you stop your regular medicine
- Some alternative medicines may cause dangerous drug interactions with other medicines you are taking. Make sure your doctor knows about all the prescription drugs, supplements, over-the-counter medicines, and alternative treatments you are taking
- If you want to try an alternative treatment, ask your doctor if you can take an alternative medicine with your regular medicine
Get Informed
It's best not to change your treatment on your own. If you have information about the alternative treatment you're interested in trying, bring that information with you to your next doctor's appointment. Your doctor may be able to answer your questions about the alternative treatment and how it can affect you.
Talk to Your Doctor
If you have additional questions or concerns about this topic, talk to your doctor.
