Supports and Access to Information

Medication-related sources of information

There are many different places to access information about medications including your healthcare providers, the internet, social media, and peers. Depending on the type of information you are looking for, you may go to different sources to access it.

For example, if you want to learn about side effects Unwanted or unexpected reactions to a medication or treatment. of a specific medication, you may ask your pharmacist. Whereas, if you want to learn about someone’s experiences with a specific medication, you may turn to the internet, peers, or social media.

Healthcare providers

Healthcare providers are a good source for getting information about medications. While you can discuss many topics with them, they can provide key information about expected outcomes, potential side effects Unwanted or unexpected reactions to a medication or treatment. , medication interactions A reaction between two or more drugs, or between a drug and food, drink or supplement. A medication interaction can delay, decrease or increase the action that can prevent the drug from performing as expected. , and overall safety. Healthcare providers can also give you personalized information based on your medical history.

For key questions to ask your healthcare providers about medications, refer to Module 4 – Communication and Information Sharing.

Internet

The internet may be used to search for general information about medications, cross-check information from a different source (e.g., information provided by a friend), or learn about individuals’ experiences with different medications.

When using the internet to search for information about medications, it is recommended to stick to well-known and credible sources such as Health Canada, National Health Service (NHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), as well as hospitals and universities.

You may also search for open access (free) peer-reviewed Research that has been evaluated by people who are experts in the same field. articles from academic journals (e.g., Spinal Cord, Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine).

If you are unsure about information you have read on the internet, or want to learn more, you can consult with a healthcare provider. Information from the internet should not replace that from a healthcare provider.

Social media

Social media may be used to find general information about medications or to learn about individuals’ experiences with different medications.

For example, there may be a forum or support group for a specific condition (e.g., autonomic dysreflexia Health condition that affects individuals with a spinal cord injury at or above the T6 level. This syndrome involves an overreaction of the nervous system and can cause high blood pressure resulting in a headache, sweating, blotchy skin, and bladder and bowel problems. , spasticity Condition in which muscles become stiff, tight, and difficult to control. ) or for people who take a specific medication (e.g., baclofen). These groups may provide insight into individuals’ personal experiences with different medications.

If you are unsure about information that you have read or seen on social media, or want to learn more, you can consult with a healthcare provider. Information from social media should not replace that from a healthcare provider.

Peers with SCI/D

Peers with SCI/D Spinal cord injury or dysfunction. can be a good source of information if you are interested in learning about personal experiences with different medications.

If you are interested in learning more about peer support with medication self-management An individual’s ability to manage the symptoms, side effects, treatment, and physical and social consequences of taking medications. , refer to Module 8 – Peer Connections and Support.