Millions of people worldwide suffer from various mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. These conditions can cause severe symptoms that largely affect a person’s quality of life. Fortunately, several medications are available to manage these conditions and improve the quality of life of affected individuals. Fanapt and Risperdal are two such medications widely used for treating mental illnesses.
Fanapt is a brand medication that contains the active compound Iloperidone. It was approved by the FDA in 2009 for treating schizophrenia in adults. On the other hand, Risperdal, containing Risperidone as the active substance, has been in the market since the 1990s. The drug is used for treating conditions such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and irritability associated with autism.
However, choosing between the two medications can be daunting, considering their differences in composition and efficacy. This article aims to compare Fanapt vs. Risperdal to help you make an informed decision for mental health treatment. Besides, you’ll explore other related topics, such as side-effects and possible alternatives to these drugs for treating mental disorders.
If you’re on the verge of making a decision regarding mental health medication, we’ve got you covered! Keep reading to find out which medication might be better suited to manage your condition.
Risperidone: Understanding its Key Features
Risperidone is an antipsychotic medication used for treating schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism. Here’s what you need to know:
Dosage Guidelines
- Risperidone usually comes in 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg, and 4 mg oral tablets
- Dosage recommendations vary based on the patient’s age, medical condition, and weight
- Doctors usually start patients on a minimal dosage and gradually increase it until the desired effect is achieved
Side Effects
- Risperidone can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and a drop in blood pressure
- It may also lead to weight gain, constipation, blurred vision, and dry mouth
- Rarely, it can cause serious side effects, such as tardive dyskinesia and neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Precautions
- Patients with known allergies to risperidone or other antipsychotics should not use this medication
- Risperidone is not recommended for patients with a history of seizures, liver disease, or blood disorders
- Patients should avoid alcohol, grapefruit, or other CNS depressants while taking risperidone
Effectiveness
- Risperidone has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism spectrum disorder
- It can alleviate delusions, hallucinations, and aggression in patients with these conditions
- However, it may not be suitable for everyone, and its effectiveness may vary from person to person
In conclusion, risperidone is a commonly used antipsychotic medication that can be effective in treating schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism spectrum disorder. However, it comes with notable side effects and should only be taken after consulting with a qualified healthcare professional.
Fanapt Label: What You Should Know
When it comes to antipsychotic medications, it’s important to understand the medications and their labeling. Here’s everything you need to know about the Fanapt label:
Approved Uses
Fanapt is an antipsychotic medication that is used to treat schizophrenia in adults. It is also approved for the treatment of bipolar disorder in adults as an add-on to lithium or valproate.
Dosage
Dosage is prescribed by a healthcare professional and should be taken exactly as prescribed. Dosages vary depending on the individual, their condition, and the severity of their symptoms.
Warnings and Precautions
Certain precautions should be taken when using Fanapt. It may cause dizziness or drowsiness, so individuals should not drive or operate machinery until they know how the medication affects them. It may also cause hyperglycemia or diabetes, so blood sugar should be monitored regularly.
Side Effects
Like any medication, Fanapt may cause side effects. Common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, and weight gain. More serious side effects may occur in rare cases.
Interactions
Before using Fanapt, individuals should let their healthcare provider know about any medications, supplements, or vitamins that they are currently taking. This includes over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements.
Takeaways
Fanapt is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in adults. It should be taken exactly as prescribed and may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and hyperglycemia. As with any medication, individuals should speak to their healthcare provider about any concerns or potential interactions.
Fanapt Akathisia: The Unpleasant Side Effect
When it comes to treating schizophrenia, Fanapt and Risperdal are two medications that many people consider. However, while each medication can be effective, they can also come with some unpleasant side effects. One of the most notorious side effects of Fanapt is akathisia, a condition that can make it difficult to sit still and relax.
What is Fanapt Akathisia?
Akathisia is a medical term that refers to a condition that makes an individual feel intensely restless. Fanapt akathisia is a side effect of the medication that can cause a patient to feel agitated, anxious, and even suicidal.
Symptoms of Fanapt Akathisia
Fanapt akathisia can manifest in different ways, and patients may experience different symptoms. Here are some of the most common symptoms of Fanapt akathisia:
- Inability to sit still
- Feeling restless or agitated
- Pacing or rocking back and forth
- Constantly moving one’s feet or legs
- Feeling like one needs to walk or move around
- Anxiety or panic attacks
How to Manage Fanapt Akathisia
If you or someone you know is experiencing Fanapt akathisia, it’s essential to seek medical assistance as soon as possible. Here are some tips that can help manage the symptoms:
- Speak to your doctor: Your healthcare provider can adjust your medication dosage or switch to another medication that is better tolerated.
- Manage anxiety: Find ways to relax and reduce anxiety, such as breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol: These substances can make symptoms worse, so it’s best to avoid them.
- Get regular exercise: Exercise can help reduce restlessness and improve mood.
Final Thoughts
While Fanapt can be an effective medication for treating schizophrenia, it’s essential to be aware of its potential side effects. Akathisia can be an uncomfortable and even dangerous condition, but there are ways to manage the symptoms. If you or someone you know is experiencing Fanapt akathisia, speak to a doctor and seek medical assistance right away.
Iloperidone Fanapt: Is it a Better Alternative to Risperdal?
Iloperidone, commonly known under the brand name Fanapt, is an atypical antipsychotic medication that the FDA approved for the treatment of schizophrenia in 2009. Many psychiatrists believe that iloperidone is a better alternative to risperidone due to its unique mechanism of action and fewer side effects. Here are some things you need to know about Fanapt:
How Does Fanapt Work?
Fanapt works by blocking the serotonin and dopamine receptors in the brain, which helps to reduce the symptoms of schizophrenia, such as delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking. Unlike risperidone, which mainly blocks dopamine receptors, Fanapt blocks both serotonin and dopamine receptors, making it more effective in treating the negative symptoms of schizophrenia.
What Are the Side Effects of Fanapt?
Like all antipsychotic medications, Fanapt can cause side effects, including:
- Weight gain
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Akathisia (restlessness)
- Increased risk of diabetes and high cholesterol.
However, compared to other atypical antipsychotics, Fanapt has fewer side effects, making it a safer option for patients with schizophrenia.
How Effective Is Fanapt Compared to Risperdal?
Studies have shown that Fanapt is just as effective as risperidone in reducing the positive symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions, and even more effective in treating negative symptoms, such as social withdrawal, apathy, and lack of motivation.
What Are the Benefits of Taking Fanapt Instead of Risperdal?
Taking Fanapt instead of Risperdal has several benefits, including:
- Fewer side effects
- More effective in treating negative symptoms of schizophrenia
- Lower risk of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) such as tremors, rigidity, and dystonia
- Lower risk of prolactin elevation.
What Are the Drawbacks of Taking Fanapt Instead of Risperdal?
Despite its benefits, Fanapt has some drawbacks, including:
- Brand-name medication, which makes it more expensive than risperidone, which is available as a generic medication
- Higher risk of QT prolongation, a potentially fatal heart condition that may lead to cardiac arrhythmias.
In summary, iloperidone Fanapt is a safe and effective alternative to risperidone in the treatment of schizophrenia. Its unique mechanism of action and fewer side effects make it a better option for some patients with schizophrenia, particularly those with negative symptoms. However, it is more expensive and has a higher risk of QT prolongation, which requires careful monitoring by a healthcare professional.
Iloperidone Side Effects
Iloperidone is an atypical antipsychotic drug used to treat schizophrenia. As with any medication, iloperidone has its fair share of side effects. Here are some of the common and noteworthy ones to keep in mind:
Common Side Effects
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Weight gain
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Restlessness
Noteworthy Side Effects
- Tardive dyskinesia: a movement disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements of the face, lips, or tongue.
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: a potentially fatal condition characterized by high fever, muscle rigidity, and altered mental status.
- QT prolongation: a heart rhythm disorder that can cause sudden fainting or even fatal heart arrhythmias.
It’s essential to monitor for any potential side effects when taking iloperidone. If you experience any concerning signs or symptoms, report them to your healthcare provider immediately.
What is similar to Fanapt?
If you’re looking for alternatives to Fanapt, you might want to consider the following options:
1. Risperdal
Risperdal is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It works by changing the balance of natural chemicals in the brain. Like Fanapt, Risperdal is a second-generation antipsychotic, which means it has fewer side effects than older antipsychotics.
2. Abilify
Abilify is another antipsychotic medication that is similar to Fanapt. It is used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. Abilify works by changing the activity of certain natural substances in the brain. It is also a second-generation antipsychotic and has fewer side effects than older antipsychotics.
3. Seroquel
Seroquel is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It works by changing the activity of certain natural substances in the brain. Seroquel is also used to treat depression and anxiety in some cases. Like Fanapt, Seroquel is a second-generation antipsychotic, which makes it less likely to cause side effects.
4. Latuda
Latuda is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It works by changing the activity of certain natural substances in the brain. Like Fanapt, Latuda is a second-generation antipsychotic and has fewer side effects than older antipsychotics.
Key takeaways
- Fanapt is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia in adults.
- Risperdal, Abilify, Seroquel, and Latuda are antipsychotic medications similar to Fanapt.
- These medications work by changing the activity of natural substances in the brain.
- Second-generation antipsychotics like Fanapt, Risperdal, Abilify, Seroquel, and Latuda have fewer side effects than older antipsychotics.
In conclusion, while Fanapt is an effective antipsychotic medication for schizophrenia, there are other similar options available that might work better for some people. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine which medication is best for your specific needs.
Iloperidone vs Paliperidone: Which One is Right for You?
If you’re looking into medication options for psychosis treatment, you may have come across iloperidone and paliperidone. Both are antipsychotic drugs that are used to manage symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
But how do they compare?
Iloperidone
Iloperidone, also known by its brand name Fanapt, is a newer atypical antipsychotic medication. It works by regulating the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin. Iloperidone has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized speech.
Some key facts about iloperidone include:
- It is typically taken twice a day with food
- The starting dose is usually 1mg twice daily, with the maximum dose being 12mg twice daily
- Side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, and weight gain
Paliperidone
Paliperidone, on the other hand, is an older atypical antipsychotic medication that has been around since 2006. It works similarly to iloperidone by regulating dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain. Paliperidone is available under the brand name Invega.
Here are some key facts about paliperidone:
- It is taken orally once a day
- The starting dose is usually 3mg, with the maximum dose being 12mg
- Side effects can include weight gain, trouble sleeping, and tremors
Ultimately, the decision of whether to use iloperidone or paliperidone will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of your symptoms and any pre-existing medical conditions you may have. It’s important to consult with your doctor to determine which medication is right for you.
What Works Better Than Risperdal?
When it comes to treating mental health conditions, Risperdal is a commonly prescribed medication. However, some patients may not respond well to this drug, or they may experience unpleasant side effects. In such cases, it may be worth exploring alternative treatment options that work better. Here are some alternatives to Risperdal that you may want to consider:
Geodon
Geodon is an antipsychotic medication that is similar to Risperdal in terms of its effects. However, it has fewer side effects than Risperdal, making it a popular alternative. Geodon is also less likely to cause significant weight gain, which can be a concern with Risperdal.
Fanapt
Fanapt is another antipsychotic medication that is similar to Risperdal. However, it has been found to be more effective in treating patients with schizophrenia. Additionally, Fanapt has fewer side effects than Risperdal and does not cause significant weight gain.
Abilify
Abilify is a medication that is used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. It works by changing the activity levels of certain chemicals in the brain, but it does so without causing major side effects. Abilify has been found to be as effective as Risperdal in treating schizophrenia, but with fewer negative side effects.
Clozapine
Clozapine is a medication that is used to treat schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It is generally prescribed when other antipsychotic medications, including Risperdal, have not worked. Clozapine has been found to be effective at treating symptoms of schizophrenia, and it has fewer side effects than Risperdal.
Invega
Invega is another antipsychotic medication that is similar to Risperdal. However, it has been found to be more effective in treating negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Additionally, Invega does not cause significant weight gain, which can be a concern with Risperdal.
In conclusion, Risperdal is a commonly prescribed medication for treating mental health conditions, but it may not work for everyone. Fortunately, there are alternatives to Risperdal that may work just as well or even better. If you are experiencing unpleasant side effects or not seeing the desired results with Risperdal, it may be worth discussing these alternatives with your doctor.
Abilify versus Risperdal: Are They the Same?
When it comes to treating mental illnesses, Abilify and Risperdal are often compared. However, the two drugs differ in several ways, including:
Mechanism of Action
While both Abilify and Risperdal are antipsychotics, they function differently in the brain. Abilify is a partial dopamine agonist, which means it activates certain dopamine receptors in the brain while blocking others. Risperdal works by blocking the activity of dopamine and serotonin in the brain.
Approved Uses
Abilify is FDA-approved to treat bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, and Tourette syndrome in children. Risperdal, on the other hand, is approved to treat bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and irritability associated with autism.
Side Effects
Both drugs carry a range of potential side effects, including weight gain, sedation, and high blood sugar. However, Risperdal is more likely to cause movement disorders, such as tremors or muscle spasms, while Abilify carries a higher risk of restlessness or agitation.
Dosage
Abilify comes in tablets, liquid, and injectable forms, with dosages ranging from 2 to 30 mg per day. Risperdal is available in tablets, liquid, and injectable forms, with dosages ranging from 0.25 to 6 mg per day.
Takeaway
While Abilify and Risperdal share some similarities, they are not the same drug. The choice between the two depends on the specific diagnosis and symptoms a patient presents. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication regimen.
Abilify vs Risperdal: Which is the Better Treatment Option?
When it comes to treating mental conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression, doctors often prescribe antipsychotic medication. Two popular antipsychotics are Abilify and Risperdal. But which is the better option?
What is Abilify?
Abilify, also known as aripiprazole, is an antipsychotic medication used to treat a variety of mental conditions. It works by changing the activity of certain natural chemicals in the brain. Abilify is available in tablet, liquid, and extended-release injection forms.
What is Risperdal?
Risperdal, also known as risperidone, is another antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability in autistic children. It works by affecting the levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. Risperdal is available in tablet, liquid, and extended-release injection forms.
Effectiveness
Both Abilify and Risperdal are effective in treating mental conditions. However, studies have shown that Abilify may be more effective in treating depression and anxiety, while Risperdal is better for treating schizophrenia.
Side Effects
Both medications come with potential side effects, including weight gain, dizziness, drowsiness, and tremors. However, Abilify is less likely to cause weight gain compared to Risperdal. Risperdal may also cause more significant side effects like tardive dyskinesia, which is a movement disorder that affects the face and tongue.
Dosage
Doctors often recommend starting with a low dosage of either medication and gradually increasing the dose until the desired effect is achieved. The recommended dosage of Abilify ranges from 2mg to 30mg daily, while Risperdal ranges from 1mg to 6mg daily.
Cost
The cost of Abilify and Risperdal varies depending on the dosage and quantity prescribed. However, Abilify typically costs more than Risperdal.
When it comes to deciding which medication is best for you, it’s essential to talk to your doctor and discuss your symptoms and medical history. They will be able to provide you with the best treatment option based on your individual needs. Overall, both Abilify and Risperdal are effective in treating mental conditions, and it ultimately comes down to the individual’s reaction to the medication and their side effects.
What’s a Better Alternative to Risperdal?
If you’re looking for an alternative to risperdal, several options are available that can provide effective relief from symptoms related to mental health disorders. Here are a few drugs that could be better than risperidone:
1. Fanapt
Fanapt is an atypical antipsychotic medication that is FDA approved for treating schizophrenia. It is believed to work by blocking receptors in the brain responsible for dopamine and serotonin. It has a lower incidence of extrapyramidal side effects compared to Risperdal. Moreover, Fanapt has shown to be less likely to cause weight gain or diabetes, unlike Risperdal.
2. Abilify
Abilify is another drug that can be a better alternative to risperdal. This medication works by modulating dopamine and serotonin receptors to reduce hallucinations, delusions, and other psychotic symptoms. It is also used to treat depression, bipolar disorder, and Tourette’s syndrome. Most importantly, compared to Risperdal, Abilify has a lower risk of side effects such as weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and drowsiness.
3. Zyprexa
Zyprexa is an atypical antipsychotic medication that can help manage schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. Similar to the other drugs mentioned in this section, Zyprexa works by changing the way certain neurotransmitters function in the brain. Zyprexa is considered to be a good alternative to Risperdal because it has fewer side effects, including extrapyramidal side effects and weight gain.
4. Geodon
Geodon is an antipsychotic medication primarily used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorders. It works by modulating dopamine and serotonin receptors to reduce symptoms of psychosis. Geodon is an excellent option if you’re looking for a drug with fewer side effects than Risperdal. It is less likely to cause weight gain and extrapyramidal side effects.
5. Seroquel
Seroquel is another antipsychotic medication that can be used as an alternative to risperidone. It is believed to work by blocking the dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain to control symptoms related to mental illness such as hallucinations, delusions, and aggression. Compared to Risperdal, Seroquel has a lower risk of extrapyramidal side effects and weight gain.
In summary, several drugs can be better alternatives to risperdal when it comes to treating mental health disorders. Discuss with your doctor about which medication can be better for you based on your medical history and the severity of your symptoms.
Risperidone vs Olanzapine for Anxiety
When it comes to treating anxiety, there are many medications available to help patients manage their symptoms. Two popular options are Risperidone and Olanzapine, both of which are antipsychotic drugs used to treat anxiety disorders. So, what are the differences between these two medications, and which one is better for treating anxiety? Let’s dive in and find out.
Risperidone
Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic medication that is used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. It works by blocking certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help to reduce symptoms associated with anxiety, such as fear, worry, and panic.
Olanzapine
Olanzapine is another atypical antipsychotic medication that is used to treat a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders. Like Risperidone, it works by blocking certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety.
Differences between Risperidone and Olanzapine
While both Risperidone and Olanzapine are used to treat anxiety, there are some differences between the two medications:
- Risperidone is often used to treat specific anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), while Olanzapine is typically used to treat a broader range of mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders.
- Risperidone may have fewer side effects than Olanzapine, although both medications can cause side effects such as drowsiness, weight gain, and dry mouth.
- Risperidone may be more effective at treating some symptoms of anxiety, such as agitation and aggression, while Olanzapine may be more effective at treating other symptoms, such as insomnia.
Which one is better for anxiety?
Ultimately, the choice of medication will depend on the individual patient’s symptoms, medical history, and other factors. In some cases, Risperidone may be more effective at treating anxiety, while in others, Olanzapine may be the better choice. It is important to discuss treatment options with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for each individual patient.
Key Takeaways
- Both Risperidone and Olanzapine are atypical antipsychotic medications used to treat anxiety disorders.
- Risperidone may be more effective at treating some symptoms of anxiety, while Olanzapine may be more effective at treating others.
- The choice of medication will depend on the individual patient’s symptoms and medical history, and should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
What to Take Instead of Risperdal: A Comprehensive Guide
If you have been taking Risperdal for a while and are looking for a substitute for any reason, it is important to know that there are several options out there. Here are some of the drugs that can be a good substitute for Risperdal.
Abilify
Abilify is a popular medication used for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Like Risperdal, it restores the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. It has been approved by the FDA and has fewer side effects.
Fanapt
Fanapt, also known as iloperidone, is used to treat schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It blocks certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which helps to reduce symptoms of schizophrenia. It also has a lower risk of weight gain and sedation than Risperdal.
Saphris
Saphris, also known as asenapine, is used to treat bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. It was developed to provide relief from symptoms such as hallucinations while minimizing side effects like weight gain.
Geodon
Geodon is used to treat bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. It works similarly to Risperdal by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain. However, it has a lower risk of causing weight gain than Risperdal.
Zyprexa
Zyprexa, or olanzapine, is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It helps to reduce symptoms by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain. It has a lower risk of causing extrapyramidal symptoms than Risperdal.
When looking for a substitute for Risperdal, it is essential to talk to your doctor. They will be able to recommend the best treatment plan for you based on your individual needs.
Alternatives to Risperidone for Schizophrenia
Risperidone is a commonly prescribed drug for the treatment of schizophrenia, but it’s not the only option available. If you’re experiencing intolerable side effects or ineffective results from taking risperidone, it may be time to explore alternative treatments that could work better for your specific condition. Here are a few options to consider:
1. Aripiprazole
Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic medication that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of schizophrenia. It works by targeting specific neurotransmitters in the brain that are associated with psychosis, which can help reduce symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. Unlike risperidone, aripiprazole has a lower risk of causing weight gain and metabolic changes.
2. Clozapine
Clozapine is another antipsychotic medication that may be effective for people who don’t respond well to risperidone. It’s been shown to be particularly useful for treating schizophrenia that includes symptoms such as suicidal thoughts, aggressive behavior, and severe mood swings. However, clozapine requires regular blood tests to monitor for a potentially serious side effect called agranulocytosis.
3. Ziprasidone
Ziprasidone is a newer antipsychotic medication that has been approved by the FDA for treating schizophrenia. It works by targeting specific serotonin and dopamine receptors in the brain, which can help reduce symptoms of psychosis. Ziprasidone has a lower risk of causing weight gain and metabolic changes than risperidone, making it a good option for people who are concerned about potential side effects.
4. Psychological Therapy
While medication can be an effective treatment for schizophrenia, it’s not the only option. Psychological therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and family therapy have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of schizophrenia and improving overall quality of life. These therapies can be used alone or in combination with medication, depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s specific needs.
5. Other Medications
There are many other medications that may be used to treat schizophrenia, including olanzapine, quetiapine, and risperidone long-acting injection (RLAI). Each of these drugs works differently and may be more effective for certain individuals depending on their specific symptoms and medical history. It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the right medication or combination of therapies for your condition.
In conclusion, if you’re experiencing intolerance or poor efficacy with risperidone, there are several alternatives available to consider. Aripiprazole, clozapine, ziprasidone, psychological therapy, and other medications can all be effective treatments for schizophrenia, depending on your individual needs and specific condition. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for you.