Medication Management

Medication management is most effective as a long-term partnership between the patient, the prescriber, and the pharmacy. After the initial evaluation and prescription, follow-up visits typically happen every 4 to 6 weeks during the stabilization phase, then every 8 to 12 weeks once symptoms are stable. At each visit, the prescriber reviews symptom rating scales, side effects, adherence, and any changes in life circumstances that could affect treatment.

Routine lab monitoring is part of safe medication management. Many psychiatric medications, including mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and certain antidepressants, require periodic bloodwork to track therapeutic levels, kidney and liver function, thyroid markers, blood glucose, and lipid profiles. The Riverview clinical team coordinates lab orders with the patient's primary care physician and reviews results before each refill. Patients are notified in advance when labs are due and given clear instructions on whether to fast or adjust timing of doses.

Tapering and discontinuation are handled with the same care as starting a medication. Stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms or relapse, so any dose change follows a gradual taper protocol tailored to the specific medication and the patient's response. The team works with the patient on a written taper plan and schedules check-ins during the transition.

For patients in Martin County and the Treasure Coast, ongoing medication management is available at both the Stuart and Port St Lucie offices. To learn more about the broader mental health services offered alongside medication management, see our counseling and mental health services hub. For patients whose treatment plan includes neuromodulation, our TMS therapy page in Stuart and Port St Lucie describes the protocol and candidacy criteria.