Medication discontinuation
Medication Discontinuation
Medication discontinuation (pronunciation: /mɛdɪˈkeɪʃən dɪsˌkɒntɪˈnjuːʃən/) refers to the process of stopping or ending the use of a particular medication. This can be a result of various reasons such as the completion of a treatment course, occurrence of side effects, or a decision made by the patient or healthcare provider.
Etymology
The term 'medication discontinuation' is derived from the Latin words 'medicatio' meaning 'healing' and 'dis-' and 'continuare' meaning 'to interrupt'.
Related Terms
- Medication Adherence: The degree to which a patient correctly follows medical advice, especially with respect to taking medications.
- Medication Reconciliation: The process of creating the most accurate list possible of all medications a patient is taking.
- Withdrawal Syndrome: A group of symptoms that occur following the abrupt discontinuation or decrease in intake of medications or recreational drugs.
- Tapering (medicine): Gradually reducing the dose of a medication over a period of time to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Process
Medication discontinuation usually involves a planned process, often referred to as tapering, where the dose of the medication is gradually reduced over a period of time. This is done to minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms or other adverse effects.
In some cases, medication discontinuation can be abrupt, but this is generally not recommended due to the potential for severe withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of the condition being treated.
Risks and Considerations
The risks associated with medication discontinuation can vary depending on the type of medication, the duration of use, the dose, and the individual's overall health status. Some common risks include withdrawal symptoms, relapse of the condition being treated, and potential interactions with other medications.
Before discontinuing a medication, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Medication discontinuation
- Wikipedia's article - Medication discontinuation
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