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Is It Illegal To Refuse Perscribed Medication For Mental Health?

Posted on Wed, 11 Jul 2012

Question: Is it illegal to refuse perscribed medication in the U.K if it is for mental health.

Answered by Dr. Aparna Kohli (1 hour later)

Hi XXXXXXX

Thanks for writing in.

The answer to your question will depend on the condition of the patient. As per my understanding, a patient who is judged by a clinician to not have the mental capacity to make a judgement ( i.e. a person with a psychotic disorder like schizophrenia) can be admitted by a responsible clinician. Treatment can be enforced in such a condition. In other conditions like an anxiety disorder, the patient retains the right to refuse treatment.

Hope this helps. I will be available for follow ups.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Aparna Kohli (35 minutes later)

This answers my question perfectly

Follow up: Dr. Aparna Kohli (18 minutes later)

The Expert's advice is provided for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, as a complete assessment of an individual has not taken place. Please consult your nearest physician before acting on it. The advice is not valid for medico-legal purposes also.

Follow up: Dr. Aparna Kohli (1 minute later)

This is not a threat because i dont have skitzophrenia.

Follow up: Dr. Aparna Kohli (11 minutes later)

Iv'e met people who often see or hear things that others do not is that a say a symptom, Have you seen Donnie Darko

Answered by Dr. Aparna Kohli (4 hours later)

Hi XXXXXXX
Thanks for writing back.
I have not seen Donnie Darko but what concerns me here is that you are young. Refusing treatment could mean a poor quality of life for you and your loved ones. I would strongly suggest that you undergo the prescribed treatment. It will allow you to live your life to the fullest. I want you to feel happy, loved and fulfilled when you are older.

Warm regards

Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar