Section C Medication has been suggested

How should the decision about medication be made?

When a professional suggests medication for your relative, the information they provide should include:

• Alternative approaches;
• What may happen if the medication is not taken; and
• Any risks or drawbacks to taking the medication, such as side effects or specific health implications.

If the person being prescribed the medication has been assessed as having mental capacity to decide whether they wish to take the medication or not, then they should be supported to do so. If the person has been judged not to have capacity, then the best interest process should be followed. See Section D for information about decision making rights of children and adults with a learning disability or autism and their families.

After these discussions, the medication should only be prescribed if its use is within the NICE guidance.