How to Ask for Alternatives if a Medication Is Not Working

Written By Derick Mugambi Tagged As medication not working ask for alternatives doctor communication medication review treatment options

If your medication isn’t doing what it’s supposed to, you’re not alone. About half of all people don’t take their prescriptions as directed, and nearly a quarter stop because they feel it’s not helping. That’s not non-compliance-it’s a signal. Your body is telling you something, and your doctor needs to hear it. But asking for alternatives isn’t as simple as saying, “This isn’t working.” You need to be clear, prepared, and confident. Here’s how to do it right.

Start with the facts, not just feelings

Don’t say, “This pill isn’t doing anything.” That’s vague, and it’s easy for a doctor to brush off. Instead, track what’s actually happening. Write down when you take the medicine, what symptoms you still have, and how bad they are. For example: “I take 10mg of lisinopril every morning, but my blood pressure is still 150/95 on three readings this week.” Or: “I take sertraline at night, but I still can’t sleep before midnight, and I feel more anxious in crowds than I did before starting it.” Studies show that patients who bring detailed symptom logs are 68% more likely to have their concerns taken seriously. A Reddit user named ChronicPainWarrior shared how bringing a two-week pain log led to an immediate switch to a different drug class-something that finally worked. Your notes aren’t just helpful-they’re powerful.

Bring your meds in a bottle

Don’t rely on memory. Bring every pill, supplement, and over-the-counter product you’re taking to your appointment. That includes vitamins, herbal teas, pain relievers, and sleep aids. Many people forget these, but they can interact with your prescription in ways you don’t expect. One study found that bringing actual bottles to appointments reduces medication errors by 22%. Your doctor might not ask you about them. That’s why you need to show them. Lay them out on the table. Say, “Here’s everything I’m taking. Can we go through it together?” This simple act opens the door to a real conversation about what’s necessary-and what isn’t.

Ask the right questions

You don’t need to be an expert. You just need to ask the right questions. Here are the ones that actually move the needle:

“Why am I taking this medication?”
“What are the benefits and risks?”
“Are there other options?”
“Can I stop or reduce the dose?”
“Will this affect my memory, balance, or risk of falling?”
“Is this still necessary?”
“Can we try something with fewer side effects?”

These aren’t just questions-they’re tools. The Deprescribing Network, founded by geriatric specialists, developed these exact phrases after seeing patients get off unnecessary drugs and feel better. One patient on a health forum said asking, “Is this medication still necessary?” led to being taken off three prescriptions that weren’t helping.

Be specific about your goals

Medications don’t work the same for everyone. A drug that helps with nighttime anxiety might do nothing for social anxiety. A painkiller that eases joint stiffness might not touch nerve pain. Tell your doctor what matters most to you. Say: “I don’t mind if I still feel a little tired in the morning, but I need to be able to walk to the store without pain.” Or: “I’m okay with trying something new if it means I can stop feeling dizzy all day.” Harvard Health says this kind of clarity helps doctors choose the right alternative. If your goal is to reduce side effects, say that. If your goal is to avoid taking something long-term, say that too. Your goals guide the options.

Hand placing multiple medication bottles on counter with glowing icons of healthy alternatives nearby.

Ask about non-drug options

You don’t always need another pill. Sometimes, the best alternative isn’t a different drug-it’s no drug at all.

For sleep problems: Sleep hygiene and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) work just as well as sleeping pills after eight weeks.
For type 2 diabetes: Regular walking, eating whole foods, and losing 5-10% of body weight lowered HbA1c levels as much as metformin in over two-thirds of patients.
For acid reflux: Cutting out spicy foods, eating earlier in the evening, and using antacids like Tums® helped 55% of people avoid proton-pump inhibitors.
For anxiety: CBT alone matched the effectiveness of SSRIs for mild to moderate cases, according to a major study in The Lancet.
For back pain: Exercise, physical therapy, and acupuncture gave the same pain relief as NSAIDs-without stomach issues or addiction risk.

Ask: “Are there non-medication options I haven’t tried yet?” Many doctors won’t bring this up unless you do. But these alternatives are backed by solid science-and often cheaper and safer.

Ask about cost and generics

If a medication isn’t working, it’s even harder to stick with it if it’s expensive. Don’t be embarrassed to ask: “Is there a generic version?” or “Is there another drug that works the same but costs less?” AARP found that 62% of patients who asked this question were able to switch to a cheaper, equally effective option. Some brand-name drugs have generics that are identical in effect but cost 80% less. You deserve to get better without going broke.

Request written instructions

If your doctor suggests a change, ask for it in writing. Say: “Can you give me a note or printout of what I’m supposed to do now?” MedlinePlus found that patients who got written instructions understood their new regimen 40% better than those who only heard it spoken. You’ll remember the dose, timing, and warning signs better. And if you need to talk to a pharmacist or another doctor later, you’ll have proof of what was agreed on.

Group of patients in clinic receiving personalized medication plans with symbols of wellness.

Book a dedicated appointment

Don’t try to squeeze this into a 10-minute checkup. Schedule a “medication review” appointment. These are longer-usually 30 minutes or more-and designed for exactly this purpose. Healthline reports that 85% of meaningful alternative discussions need more time than a standard visit allows. If your doctor’s office says they don’t offer them, ask if they can refer you to a pharmacist or care coordinator who does. Many clinics now have medication therapy management services, especially for older adults or those on multiple drugs.

Use your patient portal

Most clinics now have online portals where you can message your doctor, view lab results, and even submit notes before your visit. Use it. Send a message like: “I’ve been taking [medication] for [time] and haven’t seen improvement in [symptom]. I’d like to discuss alternatives at my next visit.” Epic Systems’ new tool, MyMedList, lets patients log concerns directly into their medical record before the appointment. That means your doctor sees it ahead of time-and comes ready to talk.

What if your doctor says no?

Sometimes, you’ll get pushback. Maybe they say, “This is the best option.” Or, “You’re not being compliant.” Don’t walk out angry. Say: “I understand your view. Can I get a second opinion or see a specialist?” You have the right to seek another perspective. If cost or access is an issue, ask: “Can you refer me to a clinic that offers medication reviews?” Many hospitals and community health centers now offer free or low-cost medication counseling.

It’s not just about changing drugs-it’s about getting your life back

Medications are tools, not life sentences. If one isn’t working, it’s not your fault. It’s not weakness. It’s medicine not matching your body. The goal isn’t to take more pills-it’s to feel better, move easier, sleep deeper, and live without constant side effects. Patients who actively ask for alternatives are 3.2 times more likely to safely stop unnecessary drugs. They’re also more likely to stick with the treatment that actually works. You’re not being difficult. You’re being smart.

What should I do if my medication isn’t working but my doctor says it’s fine?

If your doctor dismisses your concerns, ask for a written explanation of why they believe the medication is still appropriate. Then request a referral to a pharmacist or specialist for a second opinion. Many clinics now offer free medication reviews. You have the right to understand your treatment-and to seek alternatives if it’s not helping.

Can I stop taking my medication on my own if it’s not working?

Never stop a prescription drug suddenly without talking to your doctor. Some medications, like antidepressants or blood pressure pills, can cause dangerous withdrawal effects if stopped abruptly. Instead, ask: “Can we slowly reduce the dose?” or “What’s the safest way to stop or switch?” Your doctor can guide you through a safe transition.

How long should I wait before asking for an alternative?

There’s no fixed timeline, but most medications either work within 2-6 weeks or they don’t. For example, antidepressants usually take 4-6 weeks to show full effect. If you’ve given it that time and still feel no improvement-or if side effects are worse than the original problem-start the conversation. Waiting too long can make symptoms worse and delay better care.

Are there tests that can tell me which medication will work for me?

Yes. Pharmacogenomic testing looks at your genes to predict how you’ll respond to certain drugs. It’s already used in mental health, pain management, and heart disease. Studies show it helps pick the right medication 57% of the time. Ask your doctor if this test is available for your condition. It’s not standard yet, but it’s growing fast-and it could save you months of trial and error.

Can I ask for a different brand if the generic isn’t working?

Yes. While generics are required to be bioequivalent to brand-name drugs, some people notice small differences in side effects or effectiveness. If you feel the generic isn’t working the same way, say so. Your doctor can write a prescription for the brand-name version if they believe it’s medically necessary. Insurance may require prior authorization, but it’s worth asking.

There are 15 Comments

Emily Entwistle

OMG YES THIS. I was on Zoloft for 8 months and felt like a zombie. Brought my pill bottle, wrote down my sleep logs, and asked, "Can we try CBT instead?" My doc was shocked I knew what CBT was. We switched. I sleep like a baby now. 🙌
Samkelo Bodwana

Look, I get that doctors are busy, but I’ve been in the system long enough to know that if you don’t show up with data, they treat you like a nuisance. I kept a daily spreadsheet for my blood pressure, mood swings, and even how many steps I took. I printed it out in color, laminated it, and brought it to my appointment like it was a TED Talk. They didn’t know what hit them. Within two weeks, they switched me from a statin to a natural supplement protocol. I’m not saying it’s magic, but if you treat your health like a project-not a passive experience-you get results. People think it’s rude to ask questions, but honestly, the rude thing is letting a doctor make decisions for you without your input. You’re not just a patient. You’re the CEO of your own body. And CEOs don’t just accept the quarterly report-they audit it, question it, and demand better KPIs.
Duncan Prowel

While the pragmatic advice offered herein is largely sound, I must respectfully submit that the implicit assumption-that physicians are uniformly dismissive of patient-initiated inquiry-is not empirically substantiated across all healthcare systems. In the NHS, for instance, medication review appointments are standard protocol for polypharmacy patients, and pharmacists routinely conduct structured medication reconciliation. The onus, therefore, should not rest solely upon the individual to arm themselves with spreadsheets and pill bottles; systemic reform is equally imperative. That said, your methodology is commendable as a stopgap in systems lacking structural support.
Bruce Bain

Bro, just bring your meds. That’s it. No charts, no fancy words. Just lay ‘em on the table and say, "I’m not feeling better. What else?" That’s all you need. I did it with my anxiety med. Doc saw the bottle, paused, said, "Oh. You’re on this? Let’s talk." Changed me right then. Simple works.
Jonathan Gabriel

Wow. So let me get this straight. You’re telling me that if I just bring my pills to the appointment and ask "is this still necessary?" the doctor won’t just laugh in my face and write me off as a hypochondriac? I’ve been doing this for 12 years and every time I say that, they hand me another script for something with "addiction potential" in the side effects. Also, CBT? That’s just talking to someone who gets paid to nod and say "I hear you" while you pay $200/hour. And don’t even get me started on pharmacogenomics-my cousin got tested and they told her she metabolizes antidepressants like a racecar, so she switched meds and now she’s crying in the shower every morning. So yeah. I’m skeptical. But hey, at least you’re not taking your meds with grapefruit juice. That’s a win, I guess. 😏
Don Angel

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I’ve been trying to tell people this for years. Don’t just say, "It’s not working." Say: "I took it for 6 weeks, here’s my log, here’s what I still feel, here’s what I want to feel instead." And if they push back? Say, "I’d like a second opinion." That’s your right. Not a request. A right. I wish I’d known this when I was 22.
benedict nwokedi

Let’s be real: Big Pharma doesn’t want you asking these questions. They’ve spent billions training doctors to believe pills are the only solution. The real alternative? They don’t want you to know this, but the FDA has quietly approved dozens of off-label treatments that work better than SSRIs-but they’re not patented, so they’re not advertised. CBT? That’s just a front. The real solution is light therapy, circadian rhythm alignment, and magnesium glycinate. I’ve seen it. I’ve lived it. And yes, I’ve been followed by three different agencies since I posted my 2018 video on YouTube about it. They’re scared. Don’t let them silence you.
deepak kumar

Brilliant advice! I’m from India, and here doctors often rush through appointments. But I started bringing my meds in a ziplock bag and writing down symptoms in Hindi and English. One doctor was so impressed he called me "model patient." I also asked for generic alternatives-saved 80% on my BP meds. And yes, walking 45 minutes daily cut my sugar levels as much as metformin. No magic, just consistency. You got this!
Dave Pritchard

This is the kind of post that gives me hope. I’ve seen too many people give up because they feel powerless. But you’re right-it’s not about being difficult. It’s about being informed. I’ve helped friends do exactly this, and every single time, they walked out with a better plan. You’re not just advocating for yourself-you’re showing others how to do it too. Keep speaking up. We need more of this.
kim pu

Ugh. So you’re telling me I’m supposed to be a data nerd to get basic care? I’m not a lab rat. I’m a human. Also, CBT? That’s just therapy with a fancy acronym. And why do we assume every alternative to pills is some wellness guru’s moon-juice tea? I’m on a beta-blocker for anxiety and it works. I don’t need to journal my cortisol levels. Sometimes the pill works. Sometimes the doc knows better. Sometimes you just gotta shut up and take the damn thing.
malik recoba

Man, I wish I read this 5 years ago. I stopped my antidepressant cold turkey because I thought it wasn’t working. Ended up in the ER with brain zaps. Learned the hard way: never quit without talking to your doc. Now I bring my meds, I write stuff down, I ask the questions. It’s scary at first, but it’s worth it. You’re not weird for wanting to feel better. You’re smart.
Sarbjit Singh

Bro, this is gold! I told my doc I wanted to try yoga for back pain instead of NSAIDs. He laughed. I showed him the study. He said, "Fine, but if it doesn’t work, you’re back on pills." I did yoga for 3 months. No pain. No pills. Now he refers others to me 😎
Angela J

Did you know that the FDA has a secret list of drugs that cause long-term brain damage but are still approved because they make too much money? I’ve been on 12 different meds in 8 years. Every single one came with a warning I ignored. Now I have tremors. And they say it’s "idiopathic." I know what it is. It’s profit. Don’t trust them. Don’t trust the pills. Don’t trust the "studies." I’ve seen the documents. I’ve seen the emails. You’re being manipulated. And if you ask for alternatives? They’ll just switch you to another one. The system is rigged.
Sameer Tawde

Bring pills. Write logs. Ask questions. That’s it. No fluff. Done. You got this.
Alex Czartoryski

Look, I’ve been to 17 specialists. I’ve had 42 blood tests. I’ve kept 11 journals. I’ve been told I have fibromyalgia, Lyme, adrenal fatigue, and a cursed bloodline. I’ve tried keto, CBD, acupuncture, sound baths, and a $2,000 detox program that made me cry in a sauna. And guess what? None of it worked. But when I brought my meds in a shoebox and said, "I’ve tried everything. What’s left?"-my doctor looked at me like I was the first human who ever walked into his office. He paused. Then he said, "You’re on too many things. Let’s take you off everything and start over." I cried. Not from sadness. From relief. So yes. Do this. Even if you think you’re crazy. You’re not. You’re just tired.