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Advice about medicines and medical appointments if you're autistic

Useful tips for medicines

If you or your child take medicines, these tips may help.

Do

  • ask if there are other treatments that might help – medicine might not always be the only option

  • ask about the possible side effects

  • tell your doctor if you think the medicine is not working or is causing side effects – some medicines can work differently in autistic people

  • ask for regular medicine reviews – a review is a check-up to see if the medicine you're taking is still right for you or your child and is not causing any problems

  • read advice about problems swallowing pills if this is a problem for you or your child

Don’t

  • do not stop taking any medicines without speaking to a doctor first – some medicines can cause serious side effects if you stop taking them suddenly

Useful tips for medical appointments

Do

  • ask for an appointment at the start or end of the day – the waiting room may be less busy and you may have to wait for less time

  • ask for a double appointment so you're not rushed

  • arrange a visit before your appointment – knowing what to expect when you go for your appointment may help you or your child feel less anxious

  • bring someone else with you on the day if it might help

  • ask at reception if there's a quiet place you can wait – if not, ask if you can wait outside or in the car and if someone can call or get you when they're ready

Don’t

  • do not worry about letting staff know how they can make things easier – you have the right to ask for simple changes to be made that may help

Page last reviewed: 17 October 2022
Next review due: 17 October 2025