Optimizing benefit of medication

Regardless of the illness, whenever medication is involved, lifestyle modifications and changes are typically required to maximize the benefits of treatment and truly reverse or contain the illness. Individuals who are treated for hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, or obesity, who require medications, are typically told to modify their diet or activity levels. Failure to make those changes generally results in a suboptimal response in either intensity or duration.

Medication as a Spotter

In the gym, when you’re struggling to get through a certain challenge and the weight comes down on you despite pushing with all your might, you call for the spotter. The goal is not to take the weight, but to help stabilize and assist to allow for reinforcement of your strengths. The medication serves to help jump-start or enhance the non-pharmaceutical behaviors you’re engaging in to combat the illness. Henceforth, medication is your spotter.

Always check with your trainer i.e. medical provider before making changes

Now, if medication is the spotter, that means you are working with the trainer, a medical professional who is prescribing your medication.  Please consult with that trainer before you make any decisions regarding the use of your medications.

Keys to effectively using your  spotter

1. The spotter does not take the weight. The goal is to decrease the pressure, stabilize the weight, and put you in a position to best accomplish your goal through consistent effort on non-pharmaceutical components of treatment.
2. The strength of the spotter does not determine your overall potential for growth. In most cases, the effort you put into treatment will have a far greater impact than the use of medication alone. For example, the full benefits of some medications may be seen in 4 to 6 weeks. However, that does not mean that you have reached your potential for improvement at that time.
3. The spotter carries more weight in certain conditions. This is particularly true for illness such as psychosis or severe mood disorders. In these cases, think of the spotter more like a Smith machine, where you stay locked in position for assistance. Steadily compliant with medications.
4. The spotter does not make you stronger if you don’t put in the effort. For example, failure to make lifestyle and behavioral changes or adjustments to one’s mindstate and reactions will limit the benefit of medications and likely return to symptoms in their absence.
5. The goal is to use the spotter as little as possible, like medications. This doesn’t mean that a person does not require a certain level of medication; however, one should use only use the amount sufficient to bring about the desired response. Excess dosages do not result in improved results and increase risk of side effects.
6. Sometimes, even when not required, the presence of the spotter can give a certain sense of security. However, recognize that in these cases, removal of the spotter to rest can provide a sense of confidence that may help you continue to push forward. Speak with your medical professional about how long you should keep hanging on to any old prn medications, which means on an as-needed basis.
7. The Spotter may be needed to provide additional assistance if the weight becomes unmanageable again. This is the natural pattern of illness and not a sign of weakness. Grief, trauma, substance issues, anything that adds to emotional distress may require a higher dosage of medication. In the same way that the removal of alcohol, drugs, and unhealthy relationships may result in a decreased need for medications
8. You should never become dependent on your spotter, especially with medications that have the potential for abuse and dependence. If you find yourself inclined to obtain more help from the spotter than prescribed by your provider, ensure that you have consulted with your provider and do not take such steps on your own. Controlled substances require self-control and appropriate monitoring.
9. Expect to utilize your spotter until you’re in remission for an extended period, generally 6 months. This guidance will depend on the illness and the role of medication in treatment. Always discuss changes with your treating provider.
10. A bad spot it’s not the same as a bad effort. Discuss with your provider if you and your spotter are not compatible due to limited response or side effects. Many times, the side effects may mimic or exacerbate symptoms, so monitor for any changes as well as response.

Always check with your trainer i.e. medical provider before making changes (twice, because it is important)

I have found that keeping these things in mind helps to better understand the relationship that one has with their medication. Most importantly, if you have any concerns in regards to your spotter, discuss all issues with your treating provider before you make modifications or decide to go solo.