When to Re-Evaluate Your Medications (and How to Bring It Up)
Medications can be life-changing tools in managing health conditions and improving quality of life. But as your body, lifestyle, and needs evolve, it’s important to regularly re-evaluate whether your prescription medications and supplements are still the right fit.
At the Lilac Center, we believe that medication management is not a one-time decision—it’s an ongoing part of your overall health care. Knowing when and how to talk to your doctor about your medications can help ensure they continue to work safely and effectively for you.
When to Re-Evaluate Your Medications
There’s no “perfect” schedule for reviewing your prescriptions, but there are key times when it’s wise to take a closer look at your medication plan.
1. When You Notice New or Worsening Side Effects
Every medication comes with potential side effects, but sometimes those effects can change over time. You might notice new symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, changes in appetite, or mood shifts. Don’t ignore them. These could signal that your dosage needs adjustment, or that your body is responding differently than before.
If you’ve started a new medication or supplement recently, side effects could also come from interactions between them. Be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist about everything you’re taking, including vitamins, over-the-counter medications, and herbal products.
2. When Your Health Condition Changes
Many medications are prescribed to treat specific health conditions, and those conditions can evolve. For example, if your blood pressure improves, your current medication dosage may no longer be necessary. On the other hand, if your symptoms worsen, your treatment may need to be adjusted.
Re-evaluating your prescription drugs regularly helps ensure that your medication still meets your body’s current needs—and prevents you from taking more (or less) than required.
3. When You’re Taking Multiple Medications
If you’re managing more than one health issue, you may be prescribed several medications at once. While common, this can increase the risk of drug interactions and side effects. Over time, it can also become difficult to keep track of when and how to take each one.
A medication review with your doctor or pharmacist can help identify overlaps, potential interactions, or unnecessary prescriptions. Sometimes, simplifying your routine can significantly improve how you feel day to day.
4. When You’re Noticing Emotional or Behavioral Changes
Certain prescription drugs can affect mood, focus, or sleep patterns. If you’ve been feeling anxious, irritable, or unusually tired, these changes could be connected to your medication. Even small shifts in how you feel emotionally are worth discussing with your doctor—especially if you’re already in therapy or working on mental health goals.
Medication should support your healing, not complicate it.
5. When It’s Been a While Since Your Last Review
Even if you’re feeling well, it’s good practice to schedule a medication management check-up at least once a year. This ensures that your current medications and supplements still align with your health goals and that no safer or more effective alternatives have become available.
How to Talk to Your Doctor About It
Many people hesitate to bring up medication concerns because they don’t want to “bother” their doctor or seem like they’re questioning medical advice. But open communication is a key part of your care—and most providers welcome these conversations.
Here’s how to start the discussion:
1. Come Prepared
Before your appointment, make a list of all medications and supplements you’re currently taking, including dosages and how often you take them. Note any changes in how you’ve been feeling—positive or negative—since your last visit.
2. Be Honest About What’s Working (and What’s Not)
Your provider can only help if they know what’s really going on. If you’ve skipped doses, experienced side effects, or felt unsure whether a medication is helping, say so. These details can guide more accurate adjustments.
3. Ask Questions
It’s okay to ask for clarification about your medications. You might ask:
· Are there newer options for my condition?
· Could any of my symptoms be side effects?
· How do my prescription drugs interact with my supplements?
· What’s the plan for reviewing these medications long-term?
4. Include Your Pharmacist Your pharmacist is an excellent resource for understanding potential interactions and side effects. They can work alongside your doctor to ensure your medication plan is safe and effective.
5. Focus on Collaboration Remember, you are part of your own health care team. Your doctor’s goal is to help you feel your best, and re-evaluating medications is simply another way to stay proactive about your well-being.
Building a Long-Term Medication Plan
Good medication management goes beyond refills and prescriptions—it’s about ensuring your treatment evolves with you. By staying engaged in your care and checking in regularly, you can prevent unnecessary side effects, catch problems early, and make informed decisions about your health.
At Lilac Center, we help clients navigate these conversations and build sustainable wellness plans that include both therapy and mindful medication use.
If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to re-evaluate your prescriptions, you’re not alone. Reach out to the Lilac Center today to learn how we can help you approach your medication management with confidence and care—so you can continue moving toward lasting balance and well-being.