Why Were My Medications Discontinued During My Hospital Stay?
I'm a 42-year-old woman with a previously established diagnosis of depression, Emotional Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD), and Autism. A few months back, I received some distressing news that has plunged me into the deepest mental struggles I’ve faced in over ten years. In the past month, I've had three overdoses: two involving paracetamol and one combining paracetamol with promethazine. Additionally, I overdosed on insulin in September, which led to my GP halting that medication. Following my latest overdose, I was discharged late last night back to the psychiatric unit where I first stayed last week. Since Thursday evening, I haven’t received any of my usual medications. I can’t help but wonder if this was due to an oversight by the junior doctors responsible for my case, or if there’s a specific rationale behind the omission. Most of the discussions regarding my care seemed to take place between my sitters and the medical staff, leaving me feeling somewhat overlooked. Now, I'm dealing with painful withdrawal symptoms from venlafaxine and my blood sugar levels have been alarmingly high, reaching 20 in the UK measurement system. My blood pressure has also soared between 140 and 170, for which I normally take medication. I would have been sent home on Saturday morning had they not been awaiting the results of my paracetamol and liver function tests, but unfortunately, the samples kept breaking down. The repeated attempts have left my arms and hands bruised and discolored due to my uncooperative veins. Regarding my diabetes medication, I take Rybelsus, Metformin XR, empagliflozin, and gliclazide. For my psychiatric treatment, the specifics are murky. Before my admission, I believe I was on 375 mg of venlafaxine. Fortunately, the doctor in charge this time is attentive to my request to transition to an alternative medication due to the side effects I've been experiencing and the consequences of missing doses. Presently, my regimen includes both venlafaxine and mirtazapine, along with quetiapine taken three times a day.
Answers (1)
12/14/2025, 6:30:46 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're going through a difficult time, and I want to acknowledge your feelings about your medications and treatment process. The discontinuation of your medications during your hospital stay can understandably lead to confusion and distress, especially given your complex medical background.
Main Points:
- Medications may be temporarily halted for safety and monitoring reasons after overdoses.
- Withdrawal symptoms and high blood sugar levels indicate a need for careful management.
- Communication with the healthcare team is crucial for your understanding and mental well-being.
Explanation:
When a patient has experienced multiple overdoses, healthcare providers often reassess their medications to ensure safety and effectiveness. This careful evaluation can sometimes result in temporarily discontinuing certain medications to avoid adverse interactions or further complications while monitoring your mental and physical health. Additionally, during this time, they may be focused on managing acute symptoms such as overdoses and withdrawal, which can sometimes lead to a lack of communication about ongoing treatment plans.
The withdrawal symptoms from venlafaxine can be challenging, and it's crucial to inform your medical team about these symptoms so they can provide appropriate support. High blood sugar levels, especially in the context of skipped diabetes medications, need to be addressed urgently to prevent complications.
Next Steps:
- Communicate with Your Care Team: Formulate a list of your current symptoms, medications you were on before admission, and any concerns about withdrawal. Ask about the plan for reintroducing your medications and managing your diabetes.
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of your blood sugar levels and any withdrawal symptoms. Share this information with your healthcare team regularly.
- Request Regular Updates: Ask for updates about decisions concerning your medications and the reasons behind them. A collaborative approach can help you feel more involved and informed about your care.
- Focus on Hydration and Nutrition: Given your elevated blood sugar and overall health status, prioritize hydration and a balanced diet to help manage your diabetes and support your mental health.
It’s important to advocate for yourself during this process, and don’t hesitate to voice your concerns and preferences regarding your treatment. Your well-being is a priority, and it’s essential that you feel heard and supported in your care journey.
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