During a recent appearance on BBC Morning Live, Dr Punam Krishan emphasized the importance of patients actively questioning their GPs whenever prescribed new medication. Addressing hosts Greg Rutherford and Louise Minchin, she highlighted that asking the right questions ensures patients stay well-informed, even if they misplace the accompanying information leaflet.
Dr Krishan acknowledged that many patients hesitate to ask questions, fearing they might take up too much of their doctor’s time. However, she urged viewers to invest the few extra minutes to clarify any concerns. To help, she provided a list of essential questions covering key topics including the purpose of the medication, how it works, the expected timeframe for results, and how to identify if the treatment isn’t effective.
Recognizing that patient information leaflets are easily lost, Dr Krishan pointed out that the NHS website maintains a comprehensive Medicines A-Z resource, detailing medications and their side effects. Furthermore, patients can always turn to pharmacists or their GP for additional guidance.
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Accessibility of medication information extends to those with visual impairments, with the MHRA mandating availability of patient leaflets in formats like Braille, large print, and audio on request.
Dr Krishan advised patients to ask about proper administration—how often and when to take the medication, whether it should be taken with food or water, and what to do if a dose is missed. She also recommended discussing the common side effects, how to manage them, and circumstances that warrant urgent medical attention.
Crucially, she warned against the dangerous habit of stopping medication without professional advice, especially when experiencing side effects. “Never just stop your medication on your own,” Dr Krishan stressed. Some drugs require careful dose reduction to avoid withdrawal symptoms, and abrupt discontinuation can be harmful. Mild side effects should be tracked and discussed with a healthcare provider, while severe reactions like rash, vomiting, or anaphylaxis require immediate emergency care.
Her guidance empowers patients to take control of their treatment safely by fostering open communication with healthcare professionals and understanding the medications they use.