Perscription Drug Optimization Therapy

Why Medication Needs a Smarter Strategy

Every year, thousands of patients suffer from adverse drug reactions, interactions, and overprescription. At Patients Medical in New York City, we believe in precision—not polypharmacy. Our integrative approach to Prescription Drug Optimization Therapy evaluates your current medications, health status, genetics, and lifestyle to help you achieve the safest, most effective regimen possible.

We don’t just manage prescriptions—we optimize your entire treatment journey.

What Is Prescription Drug Optimization Therapy?

Prescription Drug Optimization Therapy (PDOT) is a functional and holistic evaluation of a patient’s medications to reduce risks, enhance efficacy, and eliminate unnecessary drugs. It is especially critical for individuals taking multiple prescriptions for chronic conditions like:

  • Diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Depression or anxiety
  • Chronic pain
  • Autoimmune diseases

We take into account not just the drugs you take—but who you are.

Why It Matters: The Hidden Risks of Polypharmacy

If you’re taking 3 or more prescription drugs, you’re at risk for:

Instead of piling on more prescriptions to treat side effects, we work to eliminate the root cause.

Root Causes We Investigate

Our team uses advanced functional medicine testing to uncover why certain medications may be causing more harm than help. Common underlying issues we explore include:

  • Liver detoxification overload
  • MTHFR or CYP450 genetic mutations affecting drug metabolism
  • Gut dysbiosis impacting nutrient and drug absorption
  • Chronic inflammation or autoimmunity
  • Micronutrient deficiencies caused by long-term medication use

Diagnostic Testing We Use

To build a safe and effective medication plan, we may run tests such as:

Comprehensive metabolic panel

Liver and kidney function tests

Genetic pharmacogenomics (PGx testing)

Inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR)

Nutrient panels (B12, folate, magnesium, CoQ10)

GI microbiome and leaky gut testing

Hormone and thyroid function panels

Our Integrative Approach to Medication Optimization

We offer a range of natural, evidence-based solutions designed to reset your metabolism:

Personalized Medication Review

We review every drug you’re taking—prescribed or over-the-counter—to evaluate:

  • Therapeutic necessity
  • Dosing accuracy
  • Potential interactions
  • Duplications
  • Side effects or symptoms

Functional Medicine Testing

We analyze your body’s ability to detoxify, metabolize, and respond to medications based on lab results and your genetic profile.

Collaborative Tapering (When Safe)

If appropriate, we work with your prescribing physician to slowly reduce or discontinue unnecessary medications, replacing them with natural or lifestyle-based therapies.

Nutritional & Herbal Support

To minimize drug-induced nutrient depletion or side effects, we may recommend:

  • CoQ10 (for statin users)
  • Magnesium (for diuretics or PPIs)
  • B-complex vitamins (for metformin)
  • Adaptogens or anti-inflammatory botanicals (as drug alternatives)

Lifestyle & Diet Upgrades

In many cases, addressing the root lifestyle factors—like poor diet, lack of movement, and unmanaged stress—can reduce the need for long-term prescriptions.

Real Case Study: David’s Medication Makeover

David, 67, was taking 12 medications for diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol—and still felt terrible. After comprehensive lab testing, we discovered:

  • Liver enzyme elevation
  • Nutrient depletion
  • A genetic mutation affecting drug clearance
  • Underlying gut dysbiosis

We worked with his primary care physician to:

  • Remove 4 unnecessary prescriptions
  • Introduce liver and gut support
  • Replace 2 drugs with natural alternatives
  • Improve nutrition and activity levels

Six months later, David reported improved clarity, reduced fatigue, better lab numbers—and fewer side effects.

Testimonials

Meet Our Doctors

Rashmi Gulati, MD

Medical Director of Patients Medical

Stuart Weg, MD

A holistic pain management physician

Dr. Emine Cosar, MD

Consult Dr. Emine Cosar, MD. For Gynecology

Frequently Asked Questions

Prescription drug optimization therapy is a comprehensive review of your medications—prescription, over-the-counter, and supplements—to ensure they are safe, effective, and necessary. It’s designed to reduce side effects, eliminate drug interactions, and improve your overall health using a personalized, integrative approach.

Anyone taking three or more medications (a condition known as polypharmacy) can benefit. It is especially helpful for older adults, people with chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension, and those experiencing unexplained symptoms that could be drug-related.

 Yes, if it’s clinically safe and appropriate. We develop a gradual tapering plan in collaboration with your prescribing doctor, and we often recommend natural or lifestyle-based alternatives to support the transition.

We do not alter or discontinue prescriptions without proper consultation and, if necessary, coordination with your primary care provider or specialist. Our goal is to work collaboratively for your safety and wellness.

Yes. When possible and appropriate, we suggest herbal remedies, supplements, dietary changes, and other natural therapies that support the same goals as your medications—without the side effects.

We use functional medicine labs, genetic testing (pharmacogenomics), and a thorough health history to assess how your body responds to each drug. This helps us identify interactions, toxicity risks, or nutrient depletions caused by long-term use.

You may undergo liver and kidney function tests, micronutrient panels, genetic drug metabolism testing, hormone testing, or gut health assessments, depending on your symptoms and current medications.

The timeline varies per patient. Some adjustments can be made in a few weeks, while more complex cases may require a 3–6 month plan with ongoing monitoring and support.

Patients Medical is an out-of-network provider. However, we provide itemized receipts (superbills) for you to submit for possible reimbursement. Lab tests may be partially covered depending on your plan.

You can schedule a consultation by calling 212-794-8800 or visiting our website. During your first appointment, we’ll review your health history, current medications, and determine next steps including any lab testing.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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