Useful tips for medicines
If you or your child take medicines, these tips may help.
Do
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ask if there are other treatments that might help – medicine might not always be the only option
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ask about the possible side effects
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tell your doctor if you think the medicine is not working or is causing side effects – some medicines can work differently in autistic people
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ask for regular medicine reviews – a review is a check-up to see if the medicine you're taking is still right for you or your child and is not causing any problems
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read advice about problems swallowing pills if this is a problem for you or your child
Don’t
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do not stop taking any medicines without speaking to a doctor first – some medicines can cause serious side effects if you stop taking them suddenly
Useful tips for medical appointments
Do
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ask for an appointment at the start or end of the day – the waiting room may be less busy and you may have to wait for less time
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ask for a double appointment so you're not rushed
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arrange a visit before your appointment – knowing what to expect when you go for your appointment may help you or your child feel less anxious
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bring someone else with you on the day if it might help
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ask at reception if there's a quiet place you can wait – if not, ask if you can wait outside or in the car and if someone can call or get you when they're ready
Don’t
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do not worry about letting staff know how they can make things easier – you have the right to ask for simple changes to be made that may help