Can I Skip This Medication? Side Effects and Alternatives

Q: Can I Skip This Medication? Side Effects and Alternatives

Hello： Nicametate is a peripheral vasodilator. <br>If it causes you any discomfort, you may discontinue the medication. <br>Wishing you a speedy recovery. <br>// Director Lai Chao-Kang, Department of Spine Surgery, Changhua Hospital.

Is there a medication that I can skip taking?

Director, thank you for your kind explanation; I understand.
I didn't bring any family members with me for this follow-up appointment.
You advised me to start rehabilitation, and I have my first session scheduled for May 5th.
I also need to go for rehabilitation again from May 9th to 13th.
Director Hsu is very kind, and the physical therapist is great as well.
They provided electrical therapy and lumbar stretching.
After the session, I didn't feel much in the rehabilitation department, but when I got home, my lower back felt like it was about to break; it was very sore.
Even sitting and playing on the computer made me feel quite uncomfortable.
During my follow-up appointment, you prescribed me four medications, and one of them makes me feel extremely fatigued.
I struggle to get out of bed for work after sleeping.
I take it in the morning, and I still feel tired, which is quite distressing.
I've been taking long showers, and my colleagues have noticed that I seem to be staying up late, but going to bed at 9:30 PM shouldn't be considered late, right? So, I took out all the medication bags to check, and the only medication you prescribed that has a side effect of causing fatigue is Urokinase (nicametate).
Can I stop taking this medication? It has already started to affect my daily life.
Thank you for your kind consultation, along with the nurse, which allowed me to attend the appointment without stress.

MM, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/08

Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery

Hello: Nicametate is a peripheral vasodilator.
If it causes you any discomfort, you may discontinue the medication.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.
// Director Lai Chao-Kang, Department of Spine Surgery, Changhua Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/05/08

More Info

When it comes to managing medications, especially those that have side effects impacting daily life, it's essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider. In your case, you mentioned experiencing significant fatigue after taking Nicametate (also known as Urokinase), which is affecting your ability to function at work and enjoy your daily activities.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that every medication can have side effects, and these can vary from person to person. Fatigue is a common side effect of many medications, including those used for pain management, muscle relaxation, or inflammation reduction. In your situation, it seems that the fatigue you are experiencing is directly linked to the medication prescribed by your doctor.
You should not simply stop taking any medication without consulting your healthcare provider first. Stopping a medication abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a return of the symptoms that the medication was intended to manage. Instead, here are some steps you can take:
1. Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of when you take the medication, the dosage, and the side effects you experience. Note how long the fatigue lasts and how it impacts your daily activities. This information will be valuable for your doctor.

2. Schedule a Follow-Up Appointment: Reach out to your healthcare provider to discuss your concerns. Bring your documentation to the appointment. This will help your doctor understand the severity of your side effects and the impact on your quality of life.

3. Discuss Alternatives: Ask your doctor if there are alternative medications that might not have the same sedative effects. There are often multiple options available for managing pain or inflammation, and your doctor can help you find one that suits your needs without causing excessive fatigue.

4. Consider Dosage Adjustments: Sometimes, the side effects can be mitigated by adjusting the dosage. Your doctor may suggest a lower dose or a different schedule for taking the medication that could help reduce fatigue while still providing therapeutic benefits.

5. Explore Non-Pharmacological Options: In addition to medication, consider discussing non-drug therapies with your healthcare provider. Physical therapy, acupuncture, or cognitive-behavioral therapy can sometimes provide relief without the side effects associated with medications.

6. Monitor Your Overall Health: Fatigue can also be a symptom of other underlying health issues, such as sleep disorders, nutritional deficiencies, or chronic conditions. Ensure that your overall health is being monitored and addressed.

In summary, while it may be tempting to skip or stop taking a medication that causes unpleasant side effects, it is crucial to approach this decision thoughtfully and in consultation with your healthcare provider. Open communication about your experiences with the medication will help your doctor make informed decisions about your treatment plan, ensuring that you receive the best possible care while minimizing side effects.

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