How to Search for Information About Psychiatric Medications Prescribed to a Patient
When a psychiatric medication is prescribed, it’s important to fully understand its purpose, how it works, and any possible side effects. This article will guide you on how to efficiently search for information about psychiatric medications, including their brand and generic names, as well as how to handle drugs that have multiple active ingredients.
1. Start with Basic Information: Understanding Brand and Generic Names
Psychiatric medications often come in two forms: brand name and generic name. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions about treatment, cost, and availability.
- Generic Name: This is the standard name of the active ingredient in the medication. This is usually written above the brand name. For instance, escitalopram is the generic name for a medication commonly prescribed for depression.
- Brand Name: The brand name is what pharmaceutical companies use for marketing purposes. This is usually the highlighted part on the medicine. For escitalopram, one of the well-known brand names is Nexito.
2. How to Search for Medications with Multiple Molecules
Some psychiatric medications contain two or more active ingredients. These are often formulated to address multiple symptoms or to improve efficacy by combining different therapeutic effects. Examples include medications like Nexito Plus, which is a combination of Escitalopram (an Antidepressant) and Clonazepam (a Benzodiazepine).
To search for information on a combination medication:
- Look Up Each Molecule Separately: Begin by searching each active ingredient individually. This helps you understand what each component does, and why they have been combined.
- For Nexito Plus, researching escitalopram will give you insight into its antidepressant action, while clonazepam will help you understand its antianxiety or sedating properties.
3. Important Tips for Gathering Medication Information
A. Consult Reliable Online Sources Only
The internet is full of health information, but it’s crucial to rely on trustworthy sources:
- Medical Journals: Websites like PubMed offer peer-reviewed articles that can provide deeper insights into psychiatric medications.
- Regulatory Websites: Organizations like the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) often provide prescribing information, including detailed breakdowns of how each component of a medication works.
- Searching on these sources can sometimes become cumbersome and confusing as it includes statistical data, research articles, and content of scientific nature.
- Online Pharmacy Stores: These are usually not an ideal source for information as these are written by content writers or healthcare professionals from different specializations, and they are more focused on revenue generation through the sale of medications and associated products.
- Aarogya Minds: A dedicated online platform specifically for mental health, where all the resources are either written, compiled, or supervised by psychiatrists themselves.
B. Talking to Your Healthcare Provider
While searching for information online is a helpful way to learn about a psychiatric medication, it is always best to discuss findings with your healthcare provider, preferably a psychiatrist. They can give you personalized advice based on your specific condition, other medications you may be taking, and any underlying health concerns.
If your medication has multiple active molecules, ask your provider why the combination was chosen for you. Understanding the specific benefits for your treatment plan can provide peace of mind and clarity.