Can he ask to go back on his old medication?

[Concernedwife2018]

Hi Dr Kim

My husband has suffered bipolar and depression a majority of his life. 12 years ago the doctors got all his medication under control (it took some working out but finally found one that worked) he took it for a few years but then felt well enough and stopped taking it. He probly hasn’t taken it for 7 years and has been going great. However lately his depression has flared back up and he is not going well. I suggested he go to the doctor and get back on his medication, he doesn’t want to through concern that it will take lot of times of trying before they get the right one.

Since he was on them last time we have moved towns and he has a new doctor. This new doctor has his old medical file.

can he ask his new doctor to look back on his last medication and prescribe him that as he knows it works for him? - it may not this time but we thought it would be worth a start?

thank you

[Peppermintbach]

Hi Concernedwife,

Good on you for reaching out. You sound like a very loving spouse who just wants the best for your husband and is understandably worried about him...

Sorry, I’m not a doctor and I realise you’re hoping Dr Kim will answer based on who you’ve addressed this post to. If you’re interested in hearing from Dr Kim, maybe have a look in the thread called “Got a question related to mental health? ASK DR KIM” and see what you think...

Although please bear in mind, based on my quick skim read just now, I noticed it does say in the opening post that she “won’t be able to answer questions about medications.”

I don’t think she answers questions daily but she’s there from time to time. If you type the thread title in the search bar, that thread should appear if you would like to have a read through and see what you think. I hope this helps...

Otherwise, if you’re happy to hear from peers (i.e. not doctors, etc) on this forum like myself, we would be happy to offer our thoughts and support 🙂

Kind thoughts,

Pepper

[Concernedwife2018]

Thank you Pepper, I am prepared to take advise and support from anywhere right now. I’m just trying to get my head around what to do next - if anything, I guess ultimately it isn’t my battle and although i want to save the world I can only take it one day at a time.

[Peppermintbach]

Hi Concernedwife,

It’s wonderful to hear from you again...thanks for writing again and you’re most welcome.

I feel taking it one day at a time is a good mentality. Granted, I realise that’s infinitely easier in theory than in practise so I know things can’t be easy for you...I think it’s painful watching loved ones struggle.

If your husband is willing then I see no reason why he can’t ask his new doctor to go through his old med file. In addition, maybe your husband might like to raise his personal concerns and worries with this new GP. I feel a good relationship with a professional is one where you can openly voice fears and worries with your doctor...just my thoughts

You clearly care a lot about your husband, which is absolutely beautiful and loving. I hope you’re taking care of yourself too...

Kind thoughts,

Pepper

[Sophie_M]

Hi Concernedwife2018, thanks for posting again.  Dr Kim doesn't look through the whole forum for questions, if you would like a response from her you will need to post your question in her thread below:

ASK DR KIM