My mom is in an assisted living. She is 91 and in pain for a host of issues and has anxiety. The Psychologist prescribed an SSRI. I know they have a host of side affects and neither my mother nor I want her on any SSRI at this age. If she was younger yes, but not at 91. I feel there are other drugs that could be prescribed. Can I as her Medical POA say no to the SSRI? Can I ask the pharmacist not to fill the prescription?
Before you go that route, there are a few things to consider. If your mother is in constant pain and anxiety, she obviously needs relief. She should have a doctor who is managing her pain. Her anxiety is appropriately managed by a psychiatrist. Since the SSRI is being prescribed by a psychiatrist, you need to talk to this doctor. Ask the reasons for giving your mother this medication and the expected outcomes. Ask about side effects (your main concern) and how they would be addressed. Ask if there are other medications that could be considered instead of the medication in question and their benefits and problems (every drug has side effects). You may find that this medication may be the most reasonable one to try to help your mother's intractable anxiety.
Sometimes it is better not to read up on side effects and then expect them
Over the years, my mom has gone on 1 long-term medication - which we tried increasing, briefly, with negative side effects - and the occasional short-term Rx (such as an antibiotic). With every medication my mom and I have been intricately involved in the discussion with the doctor. And, when we did stop the trial increase, I called the Dr's office to report returning to the former level of the drug.
Personally, I would not simply call the pharmacist to stop a Rx from being filled. It strikes me that a conversation with the Dr is in order so that your mom gets the relief she needs with the intervention that is right for her. IMO, simply stopping the one medication is not serving the full roll as POA because you haven't addressed the symptoms - just rejected a medication.
I would discuss the purpose of this drug with her doctor.
It could very well help your mom. Of course, some people experience side effects but not everyone does, plus you have to look at if the benefits outweigh certain side effects.
Dosages can be modified specifically for your mom or another drug can be substituted.
Best wishes to you and your mom.