Are Your Medications Still Working for You?

A Simple Review Can Make a Big Difference

As adults get older, it becomes common to take more than one medication. A prescription for blood pressure may be added to something for cholesterol, reflux, sleep, diabetes, arthritis, or another ongoing condition. Over time, even a well-intended medication routine can become complicated.

Many people assume that if they have been taking the same medications for years, everything must be fine. However, medications should not be left on autopilot. As the body changes with age, the way it responds to certain medications can change too. A prescription that once worked well may now contribute to fatigue, dizziness, stomach upset, brain fog, or balance issues.

Symptoms People Often Overlook

It is not always obvious when a medication may be part of the problem. Patients may blame age, stress, or poor sleep when they start feeling “off.” They may notice dry mouth, constipation, low energy, lightheadedness, forgetfulness, or feeling unsteady on their feet. Sometimes these symptoms are caused by an underlying health issue. Sometimes they are related to a medication, a combination of medications, or even an over-the-counter product or supplement.

That is one reason regular primary care is so important. Medication review is not just about refilling prescriptions. It is also about asking whether each medication is still necessary, whether it is still working as intended, and whether it still fits the patient’s current health needs and lifestyle.

Why Primary Care Matters

For adults over 45, and especially for older adults, medication management is one more reason why having a trusted primary care physician matters. When patients see multiple specialists or manage several chronic conditions, it helps to have one doctor who can step back and look at the whole picture.

A thoughtful primary care physician can help identify possible medication concerns, monitor chronic conditions, and make sure treatment plans still make sense over time. That kind of oversight can support not only safety, but also comfort, energy, and quality of life.

Personalized Care Close to Home

Kelsey Theriault, DO, is a board-certified internal medicine physician at Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health in St. Petersburg. She provides adult primary care with a clinical interest in geriatrics and focuses on preventive care, chronic condition management, and personalized support for healthy aging. For patients who want a physician who takes time to listen, review the full picture, and help them stay proactive about their health, establishing care with a primary care doctor can be an important step.

If you have not reviewed your medications recently, now may be a good time. Bringing your prescriptions, vitamins, and supplements to your next appointment can help uncover issues that may otherwise be missed.

Kelsey Theriault, DO at Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health, 12225 28th St. North, Suite B, St. Petersburg, FL 33716