To meet a safe standard of care, there are medications that we do and do not prescribe. There are also medications and supplements we support only with proper moderation and evidence of need.
We prescribe a large list of medications and recommend supplements that are safe and effective for the symptoms we treat. We only prescribe and recommend medications and supplements that offer clear clinical evidence that they work effectively. When there are indications of risk or side effects we will clearly outline them at the time of the prescribing and recommendations.
There are some general rules we always follow about medications and they are:
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We follow all state and federal regulations. We are expressly aware of the limitations of the DEA Ryan Haight Act. During the COVID emergency declaration, we can prescribe controlled substances without being physically in the same space. The Ryan Haight Act, when back in full effect, will eliminate this opportunity, and it will require us to be in the same room when prescribing these medications for the 1st time and every 24 months later. While a disservice to our patients are planning for this and will keep our patients informed.
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Alprazolam (Xanax) is not prescribed to patients who are not presently using it. If you are a current user, we will assess your need, and if you agree to a safe written taper plan, we will treat you. If you don’t agree to a taper plan or are seeking a new prescription for this drug, you will need to find a different provider.
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Cannabis, when clinically appropriate, is “prescribed” or authorized (based on state law) after other equally effective solutions have been reviewed and considered. The research shows that THC and, more often, CBD have clinical benefits contrary to popular belief. However, THC also has adverse side effects such as worsening of your depression, increasing fatigue, etc. So, like other medications, a prescribed balance can help, but unmanaged it can hinder your progress.
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Stimulants and sleeping aids are prescribed when clinically appropriate.