Like Missbelle, I, too, have been on meds for over 20 years. I take more now than ever before. I do get my blood checked every 3 months or oftener, so the docs are watching all my kidney and liver functions. I take meds for diabetes (insulin--two types), depression (cymbalta and remeron), blood pressure and kidney function (losartan and mitralzapine, sometimes lasix and potassium), cholesterol (simvistatin), digestive issues--GERD, nausea and vomiting, chronic diahrrea (nexium, lomotil--as needed, levsin--as needed), also sometime take ambien to sleep. And I take a baby aspirin for heart protection. For arthritis and lower back pain (broke L1 & L2 about 6-7 years ago), I take naproxen or vicodin when needed.

I'm sure I'm healthier today because of all the meds I take. I wouldn't be here today, probably, without the pysch meds. But I am glad I get things checked. I currently see regularly a family practice specialist, a psychiatrist, a gastroenterologist, an endocrinologist, a cardiologist, and a knee surgeon. I have seen a urologist, podiatrist, hand surgeon, and surgical specialist in the past.

I think the standard for prescribing meds is, "Does the benefit outweigh the risk?" So, i you need it, take it. Just watch out for side effects.