Medication Management

Taking medications for mental health conditions can be invaluable in helping patients cope with symptoms. At Blue Water Psychiatry in Mesa, Arizona, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners Justin McKinley, PMHNP-BC, Susan Bowen, PMHNP-BC, and their experienced staff offer medication management to ensure you continue to take the medication that’s best for you. Call the office or book an appointment online to learn more about medication management.

What is medication management?

Medication management is about making sure you’re taking the most effective, safest medications for your condition, and that your prescription gets regularly reviewed.

Medications can play a critical role in treating and managing many different mental health disorders. However, over time, your requirements can change, and a regular review of your medication ensures that you’re only taking what you need. 

It’s also important to look at potential drug interactions with other medications or supplements you might be taking.

Why would I need medication management?

You may be a candidate for medication management if you’ve been diagnosed with one or more of the following mental health challenges:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or attention deficit disorder (ADD)
• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Substance use disorder (SUD)
• Eating disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

You might begin to experience side effects that a change in medication could prevent. Or, you might still be struggling to find a medication that works for your condition. 

Whether you need help updating your medication or finding one that helps you with your symptoms, Blue Water Psychiatry is here to help. 

Is medication management right for me?

Blue Water Psychiatry offers pharmacogenomic testing to evaluate how your genes affect the effectiveness of certain medications. They also review your medical history, discuss your lifestyle habits, and complete a psychiatric assessment before tailoring a treatment that best suits your needs.

What should I expect during medication management?

During medication management, it’s important to take prescribed medicines exactly as directed by the Blue Water Psychiatry team. You might take oral medicines or use Spravato® nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression. Follow up with them routinely to make sure your medicines work effectively. 

Are medications always the best approach?

Medications undoubtedly play a vital role in treating and managing mental health disorders. However, they should form part of a carefully prepared treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs.

Other approaches are equally valuable, including:

• Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
• Lifestyle changes
• Stress management
• A healthy and balanced diet

Medication management doesn’t just cover the drugs themselves — it also looks at the other therapies you’re receiving to evaluate whether they’re working well together. 

You might prefer to minimize or even avoid medication altogether, and where possible, Blue Water Psychiatry works with you to find alternatives. 

To learn more about medication management, call Blue Water Psychiatry or book a consultation online today.