Posted by bleauberry on July 15, 2009, at 16:39:30
In reply to meeting new pdoc - some advice please, posted by g_g_g_unit on July 15, 2009, at 0:53:24
I totally agree with everyone here, that full disclosure of all details and feelings needs to be shared with the doctor.
At the same time, you need to somehow spell out to him your expectations in guiding you forward.
For example, if you don't want an antipsychotic, tell him so, tell him why, but tell him you would consider it if he could fully explain his reasoning, and then if he says you should have a particular antipsychotic, ask him why, how many patients of his have gotten huge help from it, if he could show you the clinical studies supporting the decision, and what his personal reasoning is for the decision. You have the power and the right to interrogate, especially since you are the paying customer. During the process you will gleam some insight into what makes the doctor tick. You will get a sense whether he is truly using his best experience for your best benefit or whether he is just shooting from the hip with you as just another face in a long workday.
The above antipsychotic example is just an example. It could be any med in question.
I still like the idea of Nortriptyline and feel it would be a good idea to mention it at some point in your conversation to get a sense of his thoughts on it. If it goes that route, be sure it is brand Pamelor at the start and that you are thinking in terms of 12 weeks. You can always try a switch to a generic later.
No matter what route it goes, being fully open about your feelings, your fears, your med experiences, side effects, private thoughts you might not usually share, and such, is important.
poster:bleauberry
thread:906813
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20090709/msgs/906916.html