How do I convince my brother to ask his MD to increase his meds ?
My brother was finally diagnosed with sz in May of 2009. Once he began medication, he was dramatically better. He had a reaction (shaking, tremors) on Abilify and Serequel, so he took 2mg resperdol. He complained of weight gain and was decreased to 1mg, but his symptoms are back full force. I called is counselor (can't talk to the MD) and shared my thoughts. So far, he has not been increased, but is back to believing that people are trying to kill him via medical testing and whatever. How do I get him to be aware that he was so much better on 2mg, even if he had weight gain. When I point it out he feels I am "in on the conspiracy" because I am not seeing that "they" are real and out to get him. How can a sz recognize when they are better and worse ? He seems not to realize his thoughts were clearer over the summer.
Hello luvingSis,
As you found out, as soon as a patient is doing well the doctor may try to lower the medication to combat a side effect. Hopefully your brother will have an appointment soon with the pdoc who will clearly see your brother is not doing well.
You can also write his pdoc a letter stating the symptoms you see. There is no reason you can't write the pdoc a letter or talk to the pdoc on the phone about the symptoms you observe in your brother. What the pdoc can't do is discuss your brother's treatment, however, he can certainly listen to your observations without commenting on your brother's treatment.
Regards,
Christina
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