The following is a general overview of psychiatric medications, with the focus on “what to look out for” in terms of special precautions, possible side effects, interactions, signs of overdose, etc. What’s been left out is much of the “good news:” the positive difference these medications have made in the lives of many, many thousands of people. Hopefully, you or your loved one will experience that difference and be able to build upon it for a better future.

SURVIVAL SKILLS FOR TAKING MEDICATIONS

1) Keep a list of all medications, including over the counter and herbal medicine. Show this list to all doctors and your pharmacist.
2) Use one pharmacy, so they can detect drug interactions and call your doctor if any interactions are detected.
3) Follow your doctor's instructions for taking medications, but work with your doctor to fit your medication schedule to your schedule: when you need to get up, go to bed and get things done. Ask the doctor what to do if you miss a dose. Never take two doses at the same time unless you have the doctor's OK.
4) Avoid alcohol and other street drugs. Report changes in nicotine and caffeine consumption to all your doctors.
5) Keep all appointments. Don't hesitate to ask questions (make a list ahead of time). Tell the doctor about any health problems or side effects. Tell the doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant or nursing.
6) Make sure your psychiatrist knows what your medical doctor is doing for you (whether prescribing a medication or recommending an operation or medical procedure) and vice versa.
7) Store medications in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
8) Be patient. Remember, many side effects diminish in a few weeks. It may take a few weeks before you begin to feel better, too.

CAUTION: NAMI-NYS does not give medical advice. This page is for informational purposes only. Discuss all medication and medical decisions with your physician.

For More Information about Medications:

U.S. Food and Drug Administration Center for Drug Evaluation and Research:
This federal agency's website maintains an alphabetical index to drug-specific information. It includes FDA approved drugs with Healthcare Professional, Patient, and Consumer Information Sheets, Medication Guides, and Information Pages.

Drugs@FDA allows you to search for drugs by by Drug Name, Active Ingredient, or Application Number, and contains drugs not found in the above index.

Prescription Drug Assistance Program:
Information on free or low-cost medications provided by pharmaceutical companies.