Medication Managment

What is medication management?

Medication management is a primary care subspecialty that involves routine medication reviews. It aims to reduce adverse reactions and side effects associated with taking two or more prescription drugs. 

Anyone can experience adverse effects from prescription medication, but the risks are more common in people 50 and older. At IMPACT Practitioner Services, LLC, Kelli uses medication management to reduce prescription drug use and help patients feel their best.

What does medication management involve?

At IMPACT Practitioner Services, LLC, medication management involves in-person medication reviews using two separate criteria. Depending on your age, medical records, and health, she might suggest:

The Beers Criteria

If you’re 65 or older, Kelli uses the Beers Criteria for medication management.

During your visit, she compares the medications you take to a list of prescription drugs that you should avoid or use cautiously. Many of the drugs featured in the Beers Criteria significantly impact hydration and cognitive status when taken for lengthy periods.

Next, Kelli prescribes alternative drugs that aren’t as risky, or she develops a personalized monitoring schedule.

The STOPP/START Criteria 

The STOPP/START Criteria provides a list of safer, less risky drugs for many of the medications commonly prescribed to adults. Kelli compares the medicines you take to the STOPP/START list and then prescribes safer alternative drugs.

If your medication doesn’t have an alternative, Kelli develops a routine checkup schedule where she monitors your side effects and adjusts the dosage as needed. 

How do I know if I’m a candidate for medication management?

You may be a candidate for medication management if you have severe symptoms that don’t improve with healthy lifestyle changes, like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol. 

Medication management is a highly individualized process, so it’s important to seek professional treatment from a trained professional like Kelli. She thoroughly evaluates the biological, psychological, and lifestyle factors that contribute to your general health before recommending medication or suggesting a change in your drug therapy planning. 

Kelli can prescribe a short-term course of medication to address acute and nonacute pain. If longer-term drug therapy is needed, she can help you find the right provider to meet those needs. 

Call IMPACT Practitioner Services, LLC, or book an appointment online today to learn more about medication management.