If you are considering deprescribing (tapering or stopping) your psychiatric medication, it is essential to involve both your General Practitioner (GP) and Psychiatrist in the process, especially if you have been taking the medication for a while or if it involves complex medication adjustments.
Here's a suggested approach:
Consult Your Psychiatrist: Your psychiatrist is the specialist who prescribed your psychiatric medication, and they have the expertise in managing mental health conditions. Discuss your desire to deprescribe with them first. They can assess your current mental health status, review your medical history, and provide guidance on whether it's safe and appropriate to proceed with deprescribing.
Involve Your GP: Once you have spoken with your psychiatrist and have a plan for deprescribing, it's essential to inform your GP about the decision. Your GP can coordinate with the psychiatrist and ensure that any physical health concerns related to the medication changes are addressed. They can also monitor your overall health during the deprescribing process.
Collaborative Approach: Deprescribing psychiatric medications should be a collaborative effort between your psychiatrist and GP. Both professionals need to work together to ensure a safe and gradual tapering process, taking into account your mental and physical health needs.
Monitor Closely: During the deprescribing process, you'll need to be closely monitored for any changes in your mental health symptoms, side effects, or any new health concerns. Regular check-ins with your psychiatrist and GP will help identify and address any issues that may arise during this transition.
Be Patient and Communicate: Deprescribing can be a complex and sometimes challenging process, and it's essential to be patient with yourself. Keep lines of communication open with both your psychiatrist and GP, reporting any concerns or difficulties you may encounter.
Remember, never stop taking any psychiatric medication abruptly or without proper medical supervision, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potential worsening of your mental health condition. Always work with qualified healthcare professionals who can guide you through the deprescribing process safely.