Psychiatric medication plays a positive role in symptom management, but it can take time to get on the right medication for you. Here’s what you can do if you notice the medication is not working or has had negative side effects.
Why Might Psychiatric Medication Not Work?
Psychiatric medications help millions of people, but they’re not cure-alls. Although medicine is a precise science, things don’t always go as planned. For instance:
- Your medication ceases to work after doing its job for a prolonged period.
- Your new medication never works, even after taking it for a while.
- Your medication produces inconsistent results.
Many factors impact whether your medication works. For example, alcohol use, stress, and long-term health conditions all play a part. Also, changes like starting other medications or taking certain herbs. These effects are tough to predict, so never blame yourself.
What Steps Should You Take When Your Psychiatric Medication Doesn’t Work?
No matter which situation you find yourself in, the first step is to talk to your provider. Be forthcoming with as many details as possible — your openness will help them determine the next steps. Provide information about:
- What medications you’re taking, including non-psychiatric drugs and over-the-counter substances
- What supplements or vitamins you use
- What kinds of food you’ve been eating — things like grapefruit may impact how well certain antidepressants work
- How you’ve been storing your medication
- If and when you’ve used alcohol or substances such as nicotine, caffeine, etc.
- Any recent diagnoses, including not only diseases but also conditions like being pregnant
- Stress factors you’ve been dealing with
- Whether you experience elevated, high, or manic episodes
When talking to a new psychiatric provider, it’s essential to provide them with as much history as possible. Share your medical records and any past experiences with medication.
Finally, if you’re having thoughts of self-harm, seek help right away; there are a number of resources available to you. Call 988 to speak with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, and don’t be afraid to call 911 if you’re in immediate danger.
Speak With a Psychiatric Provider at AVI MIND P.C.
Psychiatric medication is not a cure for mental illnesses. It works best as part of a comprehensive medication management plan, so talk to a provider about managing your symptoms holistically. Book your next consultation with AVI MIND P.C. in New York, NY, by calling 516-464-8404 or using the online form.