WRO

“I'm sensitive to medications, and am prone to side effects. Is there any way to reduce my chances of having a side effect?”

Yes, some people are very sensitive to medications. We can discuss options to reduce the possibility of side effects, such as starting at a lower dose or trying different medication than what caused problems in the past. We may also consider lifestyle changes, a medical work-up, or an evaluation of current medications and over-the-counter aids to ensure there is no drug interaction that could contribute to side effects.
Additionally, we may discuss ‘natural' alternatives to medications that are helpful for many, including yoga, meditation, aerobic exercise, reading material, and dietary changes.

Although I have heard a few patients say that they don't mind taking medication because they feel so much better with the right medication, most people tell me that they prefer not to take medicine long-term. I understand, because there is always a potential negative to taking a medication. Part of my job is assisting you in determining whether it is in your best interest to continue with medication and for what length of time. There is no one simple answer for everyone. We do have research showing that if someone goes off medication too quickly, their symptoms can return and be more difficult to improve. Part of my job is to provide you the information you need to make the changes in your life that will make it less likely you will need medication long-term.

No. I want know immediately if you’re having unpleasant side effects. Gone are the days when we used to tell patients that they had to wait several weeks “toughing it out” while they waited for medications to take effect and/or for side effects to subside. Now there are enough new medications available that there are always options. If you feel any negative side effects at all I need to be informed and we will move forward from there.

Some pharmaceutical companies offer prescription assistance through
www.Helpingpatients.org. These programs require proof of financial
status. They may also require that you have either no health insurance or no
prescription drug benefit through your prescription program.

When a good drug goes bad, it's important to get rid of it...correctly. Over-the- counter and prescription medications that have expired should not be thrown in the trash, where the curious—including children and pets—could be harmed. Medicines that make it to the landfill could leak and contaminate ground water. Nor should these medications be disposed of in the toilet or sink. The Knoxville Police Department at www.knoxcounty.org offers a medication drop box available 24 hours a day 7 days a week for medication collection.

Yes, I agree that all the different titles in health care can be very confusing. Please address me with what feels comfortable to you after we meet. I don’t want to be misleading, however; I was not required to complete as many college requirements as my medical doctor colleagues. My licensures and specialties in Psychiatry and also Women’s Health reflect strict national and state board requirements. I feel proud to meet these continual educational requirements as part of my commitment to giving you the best care, which you deserve.

We meet again within a month after the initial appointment to reevaluate changes and progress. The actual schedule of our meetings, however, remains highly flexible depending on your preferences and needs at any given time. Work and family obligations are taken into account when scheduling follow-up appointments. And eVisits allow flexibility for you to have an online visit if you don’t have time to come in for an appointment or if there is no room on the schedule on the day you want to be seen.
These appointments may occur as often as weekly (during initial medication trials, at times of particular medication problems, or during periods of stress) or as infrequently as three times a year (if you are feeling well and your medication is stable). Except in unusual circumstances, we will need to meet at minimum once every four months; this is essential for maintaining good contact and oversight of your medication.