Medication Questions to Ask Your Doctor
A guide to questions to ask your doctor about your medications.

The questions below are listed courtesy of the Positive Behavior Support Project, Institute for Human Development, Northern Arizona University. The questions were developed by the Arizona Positive Behavior Support Project through consultation with Dr. Ruth Ryan of Community Circle in Colorado.

1. For what specific conditon is this medication being prescribed in this patient?

2. How does it work to treat the condition?

3. How long has the person been taking this medication?

4. Are there any other biomedical possibilities that could be contributing to the symptoms this person shows?

5. What are the signs that the medication is not working?

6. Can someone become tolerant of the medication to a point that it doesn't work? If so, whathappens? Is the medication increased or changed?

7. How will we know if the medication is successful or unsuccessful?

8. When will we reassess the medication?

9. What other information will you need from us?

10. Should we be tracking changes in any of the following: blood levels, EKG, cogntion, memory, physical abilities, sleep patterns, appetite sensory experiences, beliefs, energy level, mood, relationships, sexual function, ability to focus or other? If so, how often (daily, weekly, monthly, yearly)? When should we notice changes?

11. What non-medical supports are available for this condition? Where can I find them?