Common Concerns
No. AA does not tell anyone to stop prescribed medication. Medical decisions should be made with a qualified healthcare professional, not by AA members at a meeting.
AA does not ask anyone to stop taking medication prescribed by a doctor. AA's own guidance is clear that some members need prescribed medication for serious medical or psychiatric conditions, and that AA members should not try to "play doctor." Do not stop, start, or change any prescribed medication based on something you hear at an AA meeting. Talk with your doctor or qualified healthcare professional about any medical questions, including questions about alcohol, medication, mental health, detox, or withdrawal. If another member pressures you about prescribed medication, that is not AA's role. AA's purpose is to help alcoholics recover through shared experience, not to give medical advice. Taking prescribed medication does not make you less welcome in AA and does not make you less of a member. For questions about AA, call San Fernando Valley Area of Alcoholics Anonymous at 818-988-3001. For medical questions, talk with your doctor or qualified healthcare professional.