Why does a psychiatrist give a drug test? What next?

Posted by attentionss @attentionss, Feb 2, 2023

Why does a psychiatrist give a drug test what happens after that

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I imagine that is a variable answer, depending on what meds they are thinking of, of if they are worried if there is something else in your system. I'd ask. You and your shrink will work much better together if you are honest and ask questions.

Any doctor worth their degree should be able to explain their reasoning. It's the beginning to understanding you condition at a more fundamental level, I think. Good luck!

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Thank you. I agree about the honesty and all but it s like the doctor can t trust patient.

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@cherip

I imagine that is a variable answer, depending on what meds they are thinking of, of if they are worried if there is something else in your system. I'd ask. You and your shrink will work much better together if you are honest and ask questions.

Any doctor worth their degree should be able to explain their reasoning. It's the beginning to understanding you condition at a more fundamental level, I think. Good luck!

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What Cherip posted.

They NEED TO KNOW what is going on inside your body as well as your head ere they can rightfully prescribe ANYTHING.

I would not continue with ANY 'care provider' who did not want to know COMPLETELY what is driving my systems.

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You might find this related discussion helpful:
- Why Genetic Testing for Mental Health Meds is Important https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/why-genetic-testing-for-mental-health-meds-is-important/

@attentionss, are you referring to genetic drug testing?

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It's also done to determine if meds are being taken as prescribed.. not more or less than prescribed.

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Right up there with temperature, pulse, and blood pressure. 'Every picture tells a story', and to be appropriately cared for, the caretaker needs the WHOLE story.

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@kaptainkat

Right up there with temperature, pulse, and blood pressure. 'Every picture tells a story', and to be appropriately cared for, the caretaker needs the WHOLE story.

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Thank you.

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@netter9064

It's also done to determine if meds are being taken as prescribed.. not more or less than prescribed.

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Thankyou

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@cherip

I imagine that is a variable answer, depending on what meds they are thinking of, of if they are worried if there is something else in your system. I'd ask. You and your shrink will work much better together if you are honest and ask questions.

Any doctor worth their degree should be able to explain their reasoning. It's the beginning to understanding you condition at a more fundamental level, I think. Good luck!

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The purpose of the drug test for a new patient would be to assess your honesty firstly. And if you’re seeing the therapist for drug related issues a base line is needed. I would expect a therapist to ask about your drug use both legal and recreational as these have an effect on our mental health as well as our physician health. So if you provide incorrect info regarding this question and your drug test shows differently it will come up in treatment. Establishing a trusting relationship with your therapist is paramount to receiving good therapy to reach your goals. The testing is not meant to cause you problems but only to assist you to getting better. The therapist will not stop or decide to not see you because you got this wrong, It’s only a fact now known only between you and your therapist and a beginning of a positive relationship.

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Don't know if I'm typing in the right place for a response... but here goes.
I'm 74, have had 2 Traumatic Head Injuries (on the front right side of my head, 1966 & 1996) I have been diagnosed as bi-polar around 1997. I've had terrible experiences with the Psychiatrists I've worked with over the years. The last just decided to quit and retire, with absolutely no recommendations who to turn to. Wouldn't even return my calls! I was with him for at least 18 years. And, as I understand, he left NO notes about my care and meds. So what I need from any of you is a recommendation or advice about finding a good & reputable Dr. (in the Littleton Colorado, 80123 are) Is this possible? My memory is starting to become bad, and I am responsible for my handicapped (borderline retartex, cant read or write past the 3rd grad level) and I'm scared. I am presently taking 100mg Lamictal and my Primary Car a week ago started me on 7.5 mg Mirpazapine for sleep. Hasn't helped yet. Any thoughts about this compo? I truly am afraid and need to find a good Dr. Any thought? Thanks so very much, Janet

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