When Refusing Medical Treatment Pays Off

Posted by Laura under Health Care

When I was a teenager I had horrible acne. Nobody ever picked on me but I struggled with my self esteem. One day I mustered up the courage and asked my mother to get me Accutane. Ads work, ok?

My mother didn’t care about the side effects except one: I had to go on birth control. Accutane has been known to harm fetuses so it was a deal breaker. My mom passed because she thought I was too young to be on birth control anyway.

I found a great video on Before You Take That Pill where Stefan from Fire Your Doctor talks about Accutane. I knew I had to watch it because of my own history with the drug. Basically he believes Accutane should be banned worldwide. He cites the side effects he dealt with including possible suicide.

Immediately I thought how lucky I was. I dodged a bullet but I know many others haven’t.  I know Accutane worked marvelously for close friends when we were teens. It just wasn’t right for me.

The problem is some drugs end up doing more harm than good. Sometimes you simply have to pass on a certain medication. Refusing treatment is hard because you shouldn’t endanger your health. Having honest conversations with your doctor will help you reach a solution tailored for you. Also have a small conversation with yourself to make sure you’re making the right decision.

These questions are a good place to start:

• Could this medication save my life?*
• How will this drug help me improve my life?
• Have I tried any alternatives? In skin care this is topical options. Other medical conditions’ alternatives may include dietary changes, exercise or physical therapy.
• How will side effects change my life and for those around me?
• Are there long-term effects that could be more dangerous than what I’m currently treating?
• Am I taking the easy way out or am I doing what’s genuinely best for me?

*You won’t die from acne despite what your teenager might say. I have the information to prove it.

Have you ever refused medical treatment?

Is there any medication you think should be off the market and why?