Medication Management

Medication management is an essential aspect of psychiatric care and plays a role in treating a variety of mental health conditions. At Exhale Health, a mental health practice in Scottsdale, Arizona, skilled and knowledgeable provider Katrina Kaczmarek, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, understands how medications can positively impact individuals’ lives. She works with patients to find the proper dosage and type to avoid undesirable side effects while regaining control of their mental wellness. Call the office to schedule an appointment. Or request one online, which is fast and convenient.

What is meant by medication management? 

Medication management involves carefully evaluating, prescribing, and monitoring psychiatric medications to treat various mental health disorders and conditions, including:

• Anxiety
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Mood disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• ADD & ADHD
• Autism spectrum

Proper medication management ensures patients receive the most effective treatment with the fewest possible side effects.

What is the role of ongoing monitoring in medication management? 

Ongoing monitoring is an essential aspect of medication management. At Exhale Health, mental health specialist Katrina Kaczmarek regularly assesses the medication's effectiveness and monitors patients for side effects or any adverse reactions, including potential interactions between unrelated medicines, vitamins, supplements, and certain foods.

Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to track your progress, adjust dosages when necessary, and ensure you respond well to treatment.

How do you determine which medications to prescribe? 

Medication management is a critical component of psychiatric care and offers the following benefits:

• Relives undesirable symptoms of various mental health disorders and conditions
• It helps to stabilize mood
• It improves overall well-being 

Knowledgeable providers base medication decisions on a thorough assessment of each patient’s medical and psychiatric history, symptoms, and treatment goals. They consider various factors such as the type and severity of conditions, other health problems, and other individual preferences.

At Exhale Health, Katrina always takes a personalized, comprehensive, and evidence-based approach, spending time with each patient and listening to their needs and concerns.

What should I know about taking psychiatric medications? 

Should you require one or more medications, Katrina shares these details with you through open communication and education. 

Please only discontinue or adjust your medications after consulting your provider first, as this can have adverse effects. Be sure to understand all you can about your medications, including their purpose, dosages, potential side effects, and how to take them.

What other therapies complement medication management? 

Nonmedication approaches, such as talk therapy and psychotherapy techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), lifestyle changes, stress management, counseling, and support from loved ones, can complement medication management. A combined approach to therapy may also enhance overall treatment outcomes. 

Call Exhale Health to schedule an appointment. Or request more information online to learn more about psychiatric medication management.