artheritis

[grandad1971]

if my gp changes my pain medication to anti inflamatory do i have a say or do i just have to accept it

[4Maddie44]

The patient always has a say where treatment and medication is concerned.  Never be frightened to ask the doctor why they are prescribing a certain medicine.  You have a say every time.  

Recently my doctor wanted to prescribe co-codamol to me for my arthritis pain.  I said I had taken it before and did not like it.  She said she would prescribe the weakest dose, as it comes in 3 strengths.  So I took the prescription.  But found I still do not like it as codeine can be addictive.  I prefer to just take paracetamol.  But I did give it a go.  I think it is important we have feedback with our doctor.  I also asked for physiotherapy, and the doctor was quite prepared to refer me, but I don't think she would have done unless I asked.  

I cannot take ibrupofen as it makes me bleed internally.  So I do not take anti inflammatories.  I do exercise, which do help.

Hope you are managing I live in Dorset and am a grandma.

Take care.

[sblythe]

Changes it from what? You don't have to take anything. You can take non-prescription medications. What are you currently taking? All medications have pros and cons. Try what he/she wants you to try, and then have a frank discussion with him/her about whether they work and why they think you should be on them and what your preference are.

[Pantx]

I always encourage patients to be an active participant in their health care. If your GP changed your pain meds and you don't know why, ask him. Don't be afraid to start that conversation.  If the anti-inflammatory doesn't work, let him know.  Ask him directly why he changed your pain medication.  Sometimes GP's will rotate your pain medications if you are needing opiates to keep your tolerance low and prevent dependence or getting your pain sensors all screwed up especially if they think you have a condition that will require chronic pain management