Medication Management

Steven R. Kafrissen M.D. DLFAPA

Psychiatrist located in Kingston, PA

If you’re taking psychiatric medications, Steven R. Kafrissen, MD, works with you to ensure you’re taking the right dose of the best medication to address your needs. Achieving the best effect of these medications is delicate, and as your needs change over time, your prescription needs to change with you. Dr. Kafrissen’s medication management service can help you feel better and get the most out of the other components of your treatment plan. If you live in or around Kingston, Pennsylvania, call or book an appointment online today to learn more.

570-608-8025

Medication Management Q & A

What is medication management?

Medication management is also often referred to as Medication Therapy Management (MTM). It’s part of a comprehensive treatment plan ensuring that you are taking the correct dose of the correct medication for the optimal effectiveness of the medication. In addition to ensuring the right dosage, Dr. Kafrissen monitors all of your medications, including vitamins and supplements to make sure there are no harmful interactions.

Medication is an important part of treatment for many psychiatric conditions. However, these substances must be carefully monitored so that you experience the benefits of the medication while minimizing side-effects. Medication management is a tool for Dr. Kafrissen to ensure the best possible outcomes for you while minimizing your risk.

Why do I need medication management?

Medications like antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, mood stabilizers, stimulants, and others are a critical part of controlling the abnormalities in your brain chemistry to reduce your symptoms. Medication is typically combined with talk therapies so that you’re better able to work through your concerns and issues with your doctor. However, your brain chemistry is delicately balanced, and your needs may change over time.

When you first start taking a prescription for a mental health issue, Dr. Kafrissen may need to adjust your prescription to get the dosage precisely correct for your needs. Dr. Kafrissen adjusts prescriptions from time to time to ensure optimal effectiveness of the medication. If he notices changes in your behavior or presentation, your prescription may need to be adjusted.

How does medication fit into my treatment?

Medication is an important part of psychiatric care. Dr. Kafrissen treats many conditions rooted in an imbalance in your brain chemistry. Psychiatric medication is designed to address the chemical issues to reduce your symptoms. Medication and therapy typically are prescribed together so that you can learn strategies and coping mechanism to be able to work and form relationships in a more fulfilling way.

There is no shame in using medication to help manage your mental health symptoms. Approximately 12 percent of Americans take a psychiatric medication. Dr. Kafrissen works with you to determine the best medication to address your needs and monitors you carefully to ensure that you’re getting the optimal effects of the prescription.

If you have questions about psychiatric medications or medication management, call or make an appointment online today.