Evaluating Medication Effectiveness: Are You Getting the Best Results?

Medications should enhance function and quality of life. Regular review ensures they still serve you.

Signs Your Medication May Need Adjustment

1. Escalating side effects: New/worsening sedation, GI upset, dizziness, weight/mood/sleep changes.
2. Diminished efficacy: Symptoms return despite adherence; tolerance possible.
3. Drug interactions: New meds/supplements altering levels/effects. Pharmacist review essential.
4. Tolerance: Dose escalation needed for same effect (common with benzodiazepines, opioids).
5. Health status change: New diagnosis, organ function decline, pregnancy, aging.
6. Duration drift: Short-term med used long-term without reevaluation (e.g., PPIs, hypnotics).
7. No meaningful improvement: Adequate trial (dose, duration) failed.

Action Steps

• Document symptoms, side effects, timing.
• Schedule medication review with prescriber.
• Bring full list (Rx, OTC, supplements).
• Discuss goals, alternatives, deprescribing.
• Never stop abruptly without medical guidance—withdrawal risks.

You are the expert on your experience. Collaborative review optimizes therapy.