In my practice, I see a lot of patients with long histories of medication for multiple diagnosed conditions. In fact, by the time I have seen these people, they have consumed 50>=100% of their body weight in medication.

 

These medications are often prescribed by a variety of specialists for things like pain, hypertension, cholesterol, digestive issues, and more. And for the most part, they are prescribed to stabilize the condition – and not to “cure” the condition.

 

Of course, it is critical to take your meds when prescribed by a doctor. The medication has been prescribed to you for a reason. So if you are not compliant, your health could be at risk! But it is also important to be aware of the side effects…

…Most of these medications actually have very similar side effects, like:

 

Broad short-term effects, including: gastrointestinal issues, nausea, constipation, and diarrhea. This is because these are usually pills that are consumed orally which affects the flora within our intestinal gut lining.

 

Broad long-term effects including liver and kidney issues. This is because we need to excrete our medications, and your liver and kidneys are the two big exits of the body. The third exit is through your skin and other mucosal linings.

 

Yes, it is important to take medication. My job is to make sure you can continue your treatment and help you to manage the side effects, which include muscular pain, joint pain, skin reactions and rashes. But once you are better, I always encourage my patients to consult their specialist about UN-prescribing medication!

If you are already healthy, my best advice is to avoid any medications that aren’t necessary. Because in many circumstances, it’s more effective to change your lifestyle, improve your diet, and get more sleep. Painkillers and mood alternating drugs will always be available. So in the eventuality of pain, you can take them then so that you won’t already be immune to the meds when you need them most. In the meantime, I would suggest that you consult a naturopath for a good probiotic to ensure you maintain a healthy intestinal gut lining.

 

If you’re currently on pain meds for musculoskeletal pain, then my advice is to book an appointment. I may be able to help you control your pain so that you can live your life pain-free.

My specialty is in helping you get to the root of your pain issues so you can start slowly weaning yourself off the meds as your body gets better. Taking your medications is important but don’t forget that getting off the medications you don’t need is equally important.

 

Have any questions?

 

Contact me here or go ahead and book your appointment.