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I think my mother is addicted to prescription drugs, what can I do?

Posted , 4 users are following.

jenny.worries
jenny.worries

My mother suffers from Multiple Sclerosis and as a result she takes a lot of medication. However myself and other family members have growing concerns regarding how many have actually being prescribed. On top of the prescription drugs she also takes over the counter pills, consisting mostly of painkillers and laxatives. Medications are stored in draws and cupboards all other the house so she can easily access whatever she wants whenever she wants. Family members and myself have questioned the quantity she is taking but she becomes agitated and insists it is what the doctor has told her to take. She is extremely depressed due to her illness and I am very worried about the amount of medication she has in the house...most of which I don't even know what they are for. How do I get her help if she refuses to accept there is anything wrong? She is also an extremely stubborn woman and I feel finding help will just make her angry. Any advice would be very much appreciated.

1 like, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • debbi0140
    debbi0140

    Posted

    I would recommend that you write some of the medication down and then do some research. It's very easy looking from the outside and judge but once you have more education you could have a discussion with her. Please listening to what she is saying and maybe if she's willing you could go with her for a doctors appt. wether or not she is taking too many medications she will need your help and understanding not your judgements.
  • elizabeth155
    elizabeth155

    Posted

    I think you should try to discuss this situation with your mothers doctors. Explain your concerns and her symptoms to them and see what they have to say about her situation. If her medications do need changing it will be better to come from the professionals rather that yourself as you are too close to the situation and she will listen to the medics hopefully. I wish you good luck.

  • derek76
    derek76

    Posted

    In this day and age of patent confidentiality and data protection a doctor will not discuss anything with a relative. Even children can hide their medical treatments, STD's and contraception from their parents. The poster would need to see the doctor with her mother.

    My wife asked me to make an appointment for her with her GP. The receptionist asked if she knew that I was making the appointment for her.

  • elizabeth155
    elizabeth155

    Posted

    In the case of elderly people it is possible to discuss your concerns with their doctor without the doctor disclosing the patients treatment. A doctor worth his salt will take those concerns on board and visit said patient to discuss their treatment with them. I know that happens where I live
  • esther_de
    esther_de

    Posted

    Have you tried to look up what all the medications are and see how they may be needed by someone with MS? Perhaps talking to a drugs counselor at a drop in center might be able to help.
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