Medication Management: What Is It & Who Needs It?

Roughly one in six Americans are taking at least one medication for a mental health condition. In light of recent events, that number is rising. For example, antidepressant prescriptions rose by nearly five percent in 2020. Almost one-third of those antidepressant prescriptions are for people with no previous history of taking such a drug.

As a result, medication management is more important than ever. Individuals need to learn as much as possible about dosages, side effects, and more. This process is not a one-time event. Medication management is an ongoing and evolving journey for as long as you are taking any kind of prescription drug.

What is Medication Management?

Medication management is more than sorting your pills in plastic boxes for the week. It’s a form of outpatient treatment. After an evaluation is performed, medication management usually involves some or all of the following types of monitoring:

• Periodic review of prescribed drugs
• Outcomes
• Side effects
• Contraindications with other drugs
• Contraindications with food or supplements
• Safety and efficacy
• Any unique symptoms and lifestyle factors
• Consistency with which the patient is complying with dosages

Obviously, if it is a child or elderly or disabled person taking the prescribed drugs, medication management would involve a parent and/or caregiver

Who Needs Medication Management?

Navigating a mental health condition can be quite challenging. To add on the management of prescriptions only increases the burden. So, the short answer might be that anyone taking medication for a mental health disorder could benefit immensely from medication management. Also, if you have questions about your condition and the treatment plan, it is essential to have someone you can trust to help you find the answers you need.

Your medication management team will be crucial if and when you are not attaining the outcomes you seek. It’s first important to discern the reason why. Of course, it is possible that issues arise even when you are adhering to all drug-related instructions. In addition, it could be that incorrect dosage is the source of the problem. Your therapist and your medication management team collaborate to address any such concerns.

Your Appointment at Affinity Psychological Services

The process begins with you meeting one of our skilled and friendly psychiatric nurse practitioners. They, along with the rest of the staff, will create a safe space for you to handle your needs. Here are just a few of the most common issues we address during medication management:

Scheduling and Costs

Everyone has unique requirements in terms of their schedule and lifestyle. These days, virtual sessions are increasingly common. Assessment and treatment via video are available. As a pro-insurance practice, Affinity Psychological Services accept all local insurance plans. We believe medication management services should be accessible to all who need them.

Side Effects

You’re seeking to walk a fine line. There are aspects of behavior and thinking you want to change. At the same time, you still want to be you. Your psychiatric nurse practitioner will work alongside you to find the ideal prescription option and dosage.

Duration of Treatment

Every situation is different but, generally speaking, medication does not automatically have to be a permanent commitment. Medication management empowers you to learn as much as possible — and keep learning through the entire process.

Getting Started With Medication Management

You’ll want to work with a group that has already helped many others in your situation. Through talk therapy and medication management, Affinity Psychological Services offers a holistic approach that helps you maintain a healthy, fulfilling lifestyle. To take the big step toward recovery, all you need to do is call. We’ll set you up for a free and confidential consultation.