A doctor has opened up on an issue she hopes to make everyone aware of regarding medicine.
Taking medication can be an essential aspect of recovery when it comes to a variety of illnesses and ailments but some people don’t necessarily take it in the “correct” way.
Weighing in on the topic is Dr Shireen, a GP for the NHS. She’s also one of the countless experts who regularly post content on social media sharing their insight, professional advice, recommendations and more.
Thanks to her relatable and affable persona, as well as consistent video uploads, the doctor has a growing following on TikTok. In a recent clip, the doctor shared something she hopes will become common knowledge among patients.
Speaking directly to the camera, she began with a joke, saying: “Here is video 1,567 of what I wish everyone knew as an NHS GP. If your GP starts you on a medication and you are having side effects, you don’t like the medication or you’re feeling better and you want to stop, please can you check with your GP or – I know it’s hard to get an appointment with your GP – speak to your local pharmacist about whether or not it’s safe to stop it like that.”
Why can’t I just stop taking my medication?
The doctor continued: “There are certain medications that we put you on that you are not meant to just stop cold turkey. You can get withdrawal symptoms – the shakes, GI upset, so many things can happen.
“Also, for us as GPs, it’s really important for us to know that if you stop something, say for example, you’re on a blood pressure medication and you’ve just stopped it, that we actually monitor your blood pressure and maybe we need to start you on something else.”
Dr Shireen added: “We don’t know if you’re taking your medication or you’re not and, if you don’t request a repeating, we also won’t necessarily know until you’re due for a review that you’ve stopped taking that medication. So please, do yourself, do us, do everyone a favour; if you do want to stop your medication, speak to a healthcare professional first.”
People were keen to share their thoughts in the comments section. One person believed this was a topic which should be talked through during an appointment. “I’m not a GP-basher, but this really should be discussed when prescribing,” said one person. Another was grateful for Dr Shireen’s advice and added: “This is such an important reminder to us all”.
If you have any health concerns, it’s important to book an appointment with your GP for tailored advice and treatment options. Alternatively, if you think you’re in need of more urgent medical attention, you can call 111 and discuss your options over the phone. You can also visit 111 online by clicking here.