CAPS staff includes board certified psychiatrists and nurse practitioners who provide short-term, stabilization-focused medication management care to Tulane students. Assistance with ongoing medication needs will be facilitated through referrals to appropriate clinicians in the community.
Because of the time-limited nature of our services, if you are already taking psychiatric medications, including ADHD stimulants, we recommend that you continue to work with your home prescriber, or transfer care to a community provider. If you would like to transfer your care to a New Orleans provider, or initiate longer term services, our Care Coordinator can assist you in identifying a psychiatric provider in the community to meet your needs.
If you begin care with a Campus Health Psychiatrist or Nurse Practitioner, you will work with your clinician in determining a medication regimen that is optimal for you. Once you and your provider have established that you are doing well on your medications, you will be assisted in connecting with the best long-term option.
Psychiatry appointments may be scheduled by calling 504-314-2277.
Psychiatric Medications at CAPS and Beyond
Check out our guide to accessing psychiatric medications through CAPS.
- Make an appointment by calling the CAPS office at 504-314-2277.
- Clarify your preference for an in-person or telehealth appointment.
- Fill out forms on the patient portal BEFORE your appointment.
- Be honest with your provider about your mental health symptoms and any other concerns you have.
- If you are interested in medication options, let your provider know.
- When your provider recommends a medication, always ask about what the medication does, possible side effects, and what to expect from the medication.
- Important to note that medication works best when taken in conjunction with therapy, so your provider will likely recommend at least a few talk therapy appointments.
Step 3: Picking Up Your Prescription
- After your provider writes you a prescription, you will have the option to send it to the Campus Health Pharmacy or a nearby pharmacy in the community.
- It is very important to stay on top of your prescription. Don’t wait until the last minute to call in a refill, as these can take a few days, and you don’t want to be without your medication!
- If you wait too long to pick up a prescription after calling in a refill, your medication will be re-shelved, and you will need to contact the pharmacy to re-request the refill.
- At the campus health pharmacy, your prescription will be held for 7 days before it is re-shelved and requires another refill request. Off-campus pharmacies usually wait 7-10 days.
Step 4: Anatomy of a Prescription Bottle
Elements to look for:
- Pharmacy name
- Your name
- Medication name
- Listed dosage
- Directions for use
- Number of refills left
- Expiration date
Don’t hesitate to ask the pharmacist or your provider any questions you may have.
Step 5: Managing Your Medication
- Know the medication name and the intended effects.
- Know when and how to take it. Some medications will specify instructions like taking it in the morning, at night, or with food.
- Know the possible side effects including other potential interactions with other drugs and alcohol.
- If you want to stop or cut down on medication, never go cold turkey! Always talk to your provider first, they will respect your decision. They can help you properly taper down to avoid unpleasant side effects.
- Take your medication at the same time each day, and avoid skipping days.
