On Thursday I visited my primary care provider and he prescribed a new pharmaceutical for me. I started taking it that evening. By Friday evening I was experiencing symptoms far worse than those the new drug was intended to deal with.
One of the problems with being me is that I’m not the average patient. My body is built differently than others’ and behaves differently than, apparently, those of most people. I have been on a low-fat and low-sodium diet for the last 60 years. I’ve never smoked, taken recreational drugs, or drunk much. My consumption of red meat is about a third that of the average American’s. I eat 1,800 or fewer calories per day (and have for decades) and (until recently) walk 5-7 miles per day. I was diagnosed with a chronic pain condition 30 years ago which, after an unproductive two year course of medical treatment I have managed by maintaining an extremely regular schedule, taking the occasional NSAID or drink of alcohol, and meditation. I’m no longer taking the NSAIDs or drinking.
I have what are called “paradoxical reactions” to pharmaceuticals. Painkillers either do nothing for me or produce pain. Anti-nausea drugs may make me throw up. And so on. That seems to be familial—my closest relatives have the same experience.
Consequently, looking at the drug side effects under “rare side effects” is sensible for me and, sure enough, what I was experiencing was a possible side effect of the new drug. The immediate care practitioner I consulted prescribe an antibiotic and a steroid for me and instructed me to follow up with my PCP in no uncertain terms. The next day after being unable to reach my PCP I spent a half day waiting in the emergency room, ultimately seeing a physician. The physician concurred with my decision to stop taking the new drug, suggested I avoid the steroid, and prescribed a different antibiotic for me. I’m taking that now.
I’m scheduled to see my PCP tomorrow. I may fight the original diagnosis. I don’t think that’s what’s wrong with me. I no longer have the symptom for which I originally sought care.
I don’t fault my PCP. I think he’s doing the best he can.