Good Prescribing & Deprescribing Services in Ottawa
Are all the medications you’re taking still right for you? At NutriChem, we believe good prescribing isn’t just about adding medications, but knowing when to reduce or remove them safely.
What is Deprescribing?
Deprescribing is the process of carefully reducing or stopping medications that may no longer be necessary or that could cause you harm.
Unlike simply discontinuing a drug, deprescribing involves a personalized plan developed with a trained healthcare professional to ensure safety and effectiveness at every step.
It’s a critical part of good prescribing practice, helping patients avoid the risks of polypharmacy, which is taking multiple medications at once, and focusing on treatments that truly support their health goals.
At NutriChem, we take it a step further by integrating evidence-based natural supports, such as vitamins, minerals, and botanical medicines, to help your body adjust as medications are reduced.
Who Can Benefit from Deprescribing?
Those who can benefit the most from deprescribing are:
- Seniors managing multiple chronic conditions
- Patients experiencing medication side effects
- Individuals seeking to reduce reliance on pharmaceutical drugs
- Anyone interested in an integrative healthcare approach
Our Approach to Good Prescribing Practice
At NutriChem, deprescribing is more than simply taking away medications. It’s about empowering patients to regain control of their health through a thoughtful, collaborative process.
1. Initial Consultation
We begin with a consultation to understand your current health goals, then assess your medication history.
2. Viewing Patient's Medication History
Our pharmacists carefully evaluate each prescription for potential deprescribing, checking for its necessity, safety, and effectiveness.
3. Personalized Deprescribing Plan
If necessary, we create a personalized deprescribing plan by suggesting natural alternatives, such as vitamins, supplements, or botanical medicine.
4. Ongoing Monitoring and Support
We coordinate with other healthcare providers and regularly check in to assess your response and make adjustments as needed, while also providing supportive guidance to help you achieve your long-term health goals.
Benefits of Good Prescribing & Deprescribing
There is value in deprescribing, including:
- Reduced risk of side effects and harmful drug interactions
- Improved energy, focus, and overall well-being
- Fewer medications to manage and better treatment adherence
- Lower long-term healthcare costs
- A more holistic, sustainable approach to health
Signs You May Benefit from a Medication Review
If you’re considering a medication review but are still on the fence about it, these are some signs that now could be a good time:
- Taking an increasing number of prescriptions over time
- Unclear about the purpose of certain medications
- Concerned about interactions between drugs
- Looking for alternative or natural treatment options
If any of these sound familiar, a medication review could be the first step toward simplifying your treatment plan.
Integrative Medicine & Deprescribing
NutriChem’s approach doesn’t stop at the prescription pad. Our clinical pharmacists work alongside our naturopathic doctors to support you holistically offering:
- Nutritional advice and gut health strategies
- Vitamins, minerals, and botanical medicines as supportive therapies
- Lifestyle recommendations to help you feel your best
This collaboration ensures your health is supported from every angle, not just through fewer medications, but through a stronger foundation for wellness.
NutriChem is a NAPRA Compliant 
Compounding Pharmacy
As Canada’s leading Compounding Pharmacy, NutriChem moved into a new, state-of-the-art facility to ensure full compliance with the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) in 2019. From extremely high ceilings to highly sophisticated air filtration and ventilation to designated rooms for hazardous, sterile and non-sterile preparations, you can rest assured that our custom compounds and formulations meet the highest standards of hygiene and safety.
Ready for a Medication Review?
Book a consultation with one of our clinical pharmacists today and take the first step towards a simpler, healthier medication routine.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Our pharmacists carefully assess your health and medications to ensure deprescribing is done safely and effectively.
Some medications require gradual tapering to prevent withdrawal. Our team closely monitors this process to ensure a seamless transition.
It depends on your medications and response. Some plans take weeks, while others require a few months to achieve a careful and sustainable outcome.
Not at all. The goal is to minimize unnecessary medications and retain only those treatments that truly benefit you.
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