Deciding whether medication might be beneficial to you should be a thoughtful process including your being an informed consumer and getting accurate information and an evaluation from a physician. Hopefully, this information will help you as a consumer. It highlights the major psychotropic medications available today, general information about the drug, its use, and factors to consider when medication is recommended.

Psychotropic/psychiatric medications affect the brain and central nervous system. They alter the process of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, which act as chemical messengers between the brain cells. Medication is prescribed when symptoms of mental or emotional illness are severe, persistent, and interfere with normal functioning. Psychotropic drugs help control symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, profound sadness, depression, disrupted patterns of appetite and sleep, confused thinking, poor concentration, altered perceptions and sensations, and discomfort from physical pain. Some psychotropic drugs are prescribed for medical and neurological disorders. On occasion, two or more medications may be prescribed to relieve multiple symptoms. Which medication is prescribed depends on an individual's unique characteristics-severity of symptoms, health, age, pregnancy, etc. All drugs require careful monitoring and may necessitate initial and ongoing lab work and blood tests, special dietary restrictions, and lifestyle changes. Some of the newer medications target specific neurotransmitters and provide more effective treatment with manageable doses and fewer side effects such as sedation and addictive qualities.

Medical Intervention
Psychotropic medications usually are prescribed by psychiatrists who are physicians trained in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional problems. They are experienced in prescribing and monitoring psychotropic medication. Other physicians such as internists, family practitioners, gynecologists, and pediatricians also prescribe these drugs. Frequently, they may consult with, or recommend you meet with, a psychiatrist for diagnostic and treatment purposes. Whenever psychotropic medication is prescribed, counseling may be recommended. Counseling and medication often facilitate treatment and hasten a return to health and well-being.

What you need to know
There are several factors to consider when working with a physician to determine if psychotropic medication is appropriate for you:

1. What is the diagnosis, and why is a particular medication recommended? What symptoms relief can you expect and when?
2. By all means take medication as prescribed, but what should you do if you happen to miss a dose?
3. What are common side effects (routine or predicted reactions) and how long will they last? Be ware of possible adverse reactions (such as rash, severe headaches, nausea, and vomiting, breathing difficulties, etc.) and what should you do?
4. What initial and ongoing medical tests/lab work (usually to rule out other medical problems and establish a baseline from which to gauge the therapeutic dose for you) are required?
5. How long will you be on medication, and how do you discontinue (taper off) the drug?
6. Will your routine activities or diet be restricted in any way?
7. What follow-up medication appointments and treatment sessions are required?

Remember
A doctor-patient relationship in which trust, mutual respect, and open communication exists is one of the keys to successful treatment. Medication is no magic cures for emotional of psychological pain. The most effective treatment includes counseling whenever psychotropic drugs are prescribed. Consider your options (perhaps get a second opinion), weigh the risks, and make the best, most informed decision for yourself.

Other Useful Links:

Psychotropic Medication (Texas State) - Thorough information on the majority of medications commonly prescribed.

Considering Medication for Depression? (U Texas at Austin)

NeedyMeds (Resources to help obtain Medication if you are unable to afford them)

RxList (Pharmaceutical Information on Medications)