Module 9

Medication Risk-Benefit Worksheet

Structured framework for making informed medication decisions with your doctor

Medication Details

Medication Name

Condition Being Treated

How long has this condition been present?

Prescribing Doctor

Benefits Assessment

What specific symptoms should this medication improve?

How will we know it's working? (measurable indicators)

Expected timeline to see results

Risks Assessment

Known side effects (from prescriber + your own research)

Long-term effects (if known)

Interactions with current medications or supplements

Alternatives Considered

Non-medication approaches tried and results

Other medications considered and why they were ruled out

Questions to Ask the Prescriber

1What happens if we don't start this medication right now?
2What's the lowest effective dose we can start with?
3How long before we evaluate whether it's working?
4What specific signs should prompt us to stop or adjust?
5Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes that could reduce the needed dose?
6What's the plan for eventually tapering off?
7Does this interact with any supplements my child takes?
8What monitoring or lab work is needed while on this?
9Is there a generic version available?
10What does the withdrawal process look like if we decide to stop?

Medication Journal

Keep a medication journal. Track mood, sleep, appetite, behavior, and side effects daily for the first 2-4 weeks. Bring it to follow-up appointments — it's more reliable than memory.