The Positive Impact of Medication Adherence
Adherence to your medication can have many positive impacts on your overall well-being. Throughout this blog, we will talk about some of the significant challenges that make it difficult to stay on track with drug regimens and how to overcome those challenges to gain the most benefit from your medication.
Common Reasons for Medication Non-Adherence
To improve medication adherence, it is essential to understand some of the most common reasons that may lead patients to take medications differently than prescribed. Some patients might not take their prescribed medications because they are nervous about side effects or struggle with complicated regimens. Although these can be common reasons, research shows that the most common cause is due to cost.
Although the cost of medication can be daunting, it is necessary to remember the benefits of taking your medication as prescribed. Research from 2020 found that health issues associated with poor medication adherence have a financial impact of 528 billion dollars annually on healthcare systems, taxpayers, patients, and their loved ones.
Taking your medication as prescribed helps manage chronic health conditions and avoid unnecessary hospitalizations from uncontrolled disease states.
Q&A for Overcoming Adherence Barriers
Question: What should I do if I can’t tell if the medication is working?
Answer: Medications can often provide benefits without showing any physical signs. For example, when starting a new blood pressure medication, you may not feel any changes, but the drug is still working. We recommend forming a trusting relationship with your local pharmacist or healthcare provider; so you feel comfortable asking questions about your medication.
Question: What if I am worried about some of the side effects that may be associated with my medication?
Answer: If you experience side effects with your medication, it can be beneficial to speak with your pharmacist for preventative tips. If that doesn’t work, they may recommend an alternative prescription that can still provide benefits but may be more tolerable.
Question: How do I overcome the challenge of taking multiple medications each day?
Answer: If you are taking multiple medications and are having trouble managing this daily routine, you can try using a pill dispenser to separate your medication by day of the week.
Ella Community Pharmacy also offers a personalized Medication Packaging program proven to increase medication adherence. A pharmacist packages prescription medications and even supplements in a pouch clearly labeled by the day and time each pill should be taken, eliminating the need for pillboxes and reducing medication errors. More information about this program can be found here: https://ellapharmacy.com/pharmacy.
Question: What options do I have if I am forgetful?
Answer: Try setting reminders on your phone or taking your medication at specific times daily to form a routine. If you’re still finding it difficult to remember to take your medications, a pillbox or Medication Packaging program might be right for you.
Question: What should I do if I experience difficulty using my inhaler or insulin?
Answer: If you are experiencing difficulty taking injections, inhalers, or any other medication, feel free to reach out to your pharmacist, as we are always here to help!
Question: What should I do if I am worried about the cost of my medication?
Answer: Some insurances won’t cover as much as the in-house discount plan that Ella Community Pharmacy offers. Feel free to ask the Ella team about an out-of-pocket price for your medication. For medications taken regularly, ask our pharmacists if a 3-month supply is an option and receive a discounted rate.
Understandably, taking medication for an extended period can feel like an overwhelming task, but it is essential to remember why you are taking medication in the first place.
Whether you are trying to stay healthy to feel better throughout the day, continue working, or even see your children and grandchildren, finding your daily motivation can help you stay on track with your medication schedule.