What age can you sign off on medicine?

Hello. I posted a forum similar to this, but I was wondering at what age can someone choose to sign medicine off at? My parents really don't want me to be on any medicine, because of my age (almost 16), for it being a mental disorder, and from bad experiences in the past. I would like to go on propranolol for bad panic attacks once ever 1-2 weeks. Recently had the worst panic attack of my last with no exact cause and lasted 3 hours. I couldn't function at all. I was able to walk, but doing school work? Nope, not at all.

Anyways, am I able to sign off on medication at 16? That would really help a lot because my mom doesn't want me on medication at all, but Lexapro can only do so much. So, does anyone know the exact age? I will ask my pdoc, but I see her a day before my birthday so I would have to wait until November or until I get into the new place I have been waiting for for 4-5 months. Thanks.

Well, truth be told, it depends on the country's recommended minimum age for the med or meds in question. A lot of antidepressants can affect a teenage mind differently than a fully grown adult, often times for the worst. This is because of the body developing both physically and mentally still, and because teenagers have elevated hormones in their systems as they become adults. The body's hormones don't level back out til the early to mid twenties, but it can take longer for some.

Of course you also must factor in the individual in question and what the doctors say and recommend too. They went through a lot of schooling to know these things, and that's why they are licensed to do what they do.

I hope I helped you at least find a way to be happier and healthier.

Well, I believe it's the age of majority. But, a better question is at what age can medications prescribed by a doctor be enforced regardless of parents' wishes

I think that it's the age of majority, as well. What does your primary doctor, therapist and psychiatrist think?

nationwide the age in which someone can make their own mental and physical health decisions including medications is 18, that said some states and some laws the age is 21. these ages are based on situations in which there has been no court process mandating that person into treatment, in which case if the court system is involved then the age is mute, meaning the court decides based on that persons ability to not be a danger to their self or others and ability to follow treatment plans with their treatment providers without supervision of a guardian or parent or other supervising persons.

my suggestion talk with your parents, maybe there is a medication that will help you remain stable while at the same time not cause you the problems that may be causing you to want to drop off your medications.

another suggestion talk with your treatment providers they can explain to you why the medications are so important and what can happen should you stop taking your meds, they can also adjust the meds or change them so that you will feel better about being on them.

In my country 16, and between 12-16 you and your parents have to decide together.

I haven't asked yet. I want to though. I just got referred into a new place, so I'll ask the new person if I can get the medication I want/need.

I'm a little concerned that this is about medication you want. Why would you not already be on it if it is the right medication for you? Have you discussed it with your psychiatrist? You are in Canada where you and I can see a psychiatrist for free so discussing this with one should be no problem. Also, you can ask for a free consult with your pharmacist. They can inform you regarding your present medication and can give you information about the one you are interested in and how it might mix or not mix with your current meds.

I believe I should be on a beta-blocker for panic attacks because I get them at least once a week every week. So it would be better if I could function normally. I can't really function in one of my classes because of panic attacks so...

I haven't yet. Will be the next time I set her.

I just want propranolol PRN. Not everyday.

Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk

Also, if your parents are stubborn about not wanting you to take medication, you are 16. I've just researched this and I see that in Canada children between 14-17yrs can make their own decisions regarding their healthcare. This means not only your medication but you can make your own appointments with healthcare providers. I encourage you to do so. If you currently can't make an appointment with your/a psychiatrist immediately go through your family doctor who may be able to get you a referral quicker.

Thanks. It's just that my mom doesn't seem to understand the severity of panic attacks and how often I get them (once to twice a week). They really suck, and it's during school, so I could do poorly in class because of my anxiety, but my mom wants to make sure that I don't because of it. That's her only concern really. But I'm not planning on doing that, so... yep.

Yes, it's a tight spot between following our parent's wishes and following our rights.

I have had another thought...

I encourage mom to sit in on one of your Psychiatrist appointments. There also maybe information in the way of groups or meetings for friends and familyof those with mental illness. She may be open to attending one if you let her know about it. I know how panic attacks are - especially for young people (my neice is in out of the ER at least once weekly). Have you thought of taking yourself to the ER? That would certainly get mom's attention and information for her. Finally, you are having these attacks at school. It obviously must be affecting it. Do the counsellors at school know of this situation? They should be a great deal of support including talking to your mom.

Good luck. Being 'different' in school isn't pleasant. The whole situation can't be helpful for the anxiety and panic you feel.

I still encourage you to talk to your General family practitioner. They can get the ball rolling for you.

Mom may be angry with you for going behind her back but there is a chance of her being understanding once a professional is involved.