During a recent appearance on BBC Morning Live, Dr Punam Krishan emphasized the importance of patients actively engaging with their doctors about any new medication prescribed. Speaking to hosts Greg Rutherford and Louise Minchin, she urged viewers to ask thorough questions to better understand their treatment and avoid common pitfalls.
Dr Krishan explained that many patients tend to misplace or discard the medication information leaflets, which detail vital information like side effects. To stay informed, she recommended asking questions directly to healthcare providers or consulting reliable digital resources such as the NHS’s dedicated medicines A to Z webpage.
“Don’t hesitate to take a few extra minutes to ask your GP or pharmacist questions,” Dr Krishan advised. “It’s important to be clear about what the medicine is for, how it works, how and when to take it, and what side effects to expect.”
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She highlighted key questions patients should consider: What is the medication intended to treat? How long will it take to work? How should it be taken correctly? What should you do if a dose is missed? And what common side effects might occur?
Dr Krishan also addressed accessibility, noting that patient information is available in Braille, large print, and audio formats for those who need them, following MHRA regulations.
Most importantly, the doctor stressed one thing patients must never do: stop taking their medication without consulting a healthcare professional. “If you experience side effects, speak to your GP or pharmacist instead of discontinuing your medication,” she urged. “Some medications require a gradual reduction to avoid withdrawal effects, and stopping abruptly can be dangerous.”
For mild side effects, Dr Krishan suggested monitoring and noting symptoms, especially their timing relative to medication intake. However, urgent medical attention should be sought for severe reactions such as rash, severe vomiting, or anaphylaxis.
By asking informed questions and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, patients can better manage their medications safely and effectively.