How do I Assess Risks versus Benefits of Treatment Options?- 3

Part 3 Ask questions about drugs associated with your treatment!

When asking about your treatment, don’t forget to question your doctor about your drugs. What follows in this blog was compiled by, and used with permission from, Shanti March, RN:

“Important questions to ask about drugs

· What is this drug; are there any non-chemical alternatives?

· Exactly how does this drug work on my body and mind?

· What are the risks, benefits and possible negative effects?

· Can I become addicted to this drug?

· How does this drug interact with other drugs/foods/alcohol?

· What are the specific risks of using this drug during pregnancy?

· How do I take this drug - when, how often, for how long, with food or not?

· How do I store this drug?

If your physician does not answer these questions in understandable (layperson’s) terms, ask her/him the question again until you can understand the answer.

If your physician continues to amaze you with his/her seeming lack of ability to respond, fire your physician. You hired him/her; thus you’re in the position to fire, as well!”

Thank you Shanti!

If you want more questions to ask your doctor, please refer to Chapter 3 titled “Harness the Power of Professional Support—Your Doctors and Health-care Practitioners” in AFTER SHOCK: FROM CANCER DIAGNOSIS TO HEALING. www.aftershockfromcancer.com