Your Medication Regimen


Harold R. Meyer The ADD Resource Center 10/03/2024

Bring a Comprehensive Medication List when you visit your HCP.
• Include all substances:
• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter drugs
• Supplements
• Recreational chemicals

Note strength dosages and timing (AM/PM)

Evaluate Medication Benefits
• Monitor effectiveness over time. Re-evaluate as you age
• Understand the original purpose of each medication
• Be aware that some benefits may only be measurable through blood tests

Check Expiration Dates
• Review all medications, including OTC and vitamins. Enter expiration and renewal dates in your calendar,
• Properly dispose of expired medicines (don’t flush or trash)
• Use medication disposal kiosks for safe disposal
• Consult a pharmacist before using expired medications

Maximize Medication Efficacy
• Learn the optimal way to take each medication
• Consider timing (morning vs. evening)
• Be aware of food and drink interactions
• Understand storage requirements (e.g., refrigeration)

Review Medication Warnings
• Re-read precautions, warnings, and side effects
• Stay informed about updates to medication information

Compare Medication Prices
• Shop around at different pharmacies
• Consider legitimate mail-order options

Seek Out Discounts
• Ask about pharmacy discounts or free discount cards
• Research pharmaceutical companies and state assistance programs

Consider discount generic drug programs at national pharmacies

Opt for Larger Quantities
• Check if your insurance allows 90-day supplies
• Request extended prescriptions from your doctor when appropriate

Schedule Blood Tests in Advance
• Take blood tests ~ten days before your visit (confirm timing with your doctor how far in advance, time of day, diet, etc.)
• Set reminders for blood test appointments
• Ensure the lab has your order and medication list
• Provide contact information for all relevant doctors

Prepare for Fasting Tests
• Place reminder notes in visible locations (e.g., refrigerator, bathroom mirror)

Set Appointment Reminders
• Use digital or physical reminders to avoid missing appointments
• Confirm appointments if required

Prepare Questions and Concerns
• List specific questions and recent symptoms
• Make a copy for your doctor

Schedule Follow-up Appointments
• Book your next visit, if needed, before leaving the office

Request Prescription Refills
• Ask for refills at the end of your appointment

For New Doctors
• Bring a list of current and past medications and info on your pharmacy

Resources

For additional information or updates, contact: addrc@mail.com
Author: Harold Meyer, Board Certified and Senior Certified ADHD Coach
Contact: haroldmeyer@addrc.org

For over 30 years, Harold Robert Meyer and The ADD Resource Center have provided expert ADHD support through:
• Comprehensive services for individuals, families, and organizations:
• Personalized guidance and education
• Behavioral intervention strategies
• Support for healthcare providers, educators, and industry
• Evidence-based resources:
• Informative articles and publications
• Workshops and seminars
• Advocacy to promote understanding and reduce stigma
Unlock valuable ADHD insights: Subscribe today

addrc

Recent Posts

How to Explain a School Shooting to a Young Child: What ADHD Changes

Explaining a school shooting to a young child with ADHD works best when the parent…

3 hours ago

ADHD and Dementia Risk: What the Fourfold Headline Leaves Out

A JAMA Psychiatry study of 187,341 adults over 50 reported a hazard ratio of 4.60…

8 hours ago

Who Gets the Right ADHD Diagnosis, Men or Women? Neither One, for Different Reasons

Boys and men are diagnosed with ADHD earlier and, in one experiment, on thinner evidence.…

1 day ago

ADHD in the Workplace: Accommodations That Support Success

Employees with ADHD often bring valuable strengths to the workplace, including creativity, adaptability, problem-solving ability,…

2 days ago

ADHD Did Not Cancel Your Dreams. Here Is What It Changed.

A direct, honest article for a bright teenager with ADHD who believes the dreams they…

3 days ago