Medication Compliance

If you have an acute or chronic condition, your doctor or healthcare professional will likely prescribe a treatment that includes medication. Medication is an important part of your healthcare plan that helps you control your condition and stay healthier.

1. Plan to take medications at specific times of day according to the prescription. For example, if you are directed to take one pill at morning and one at night, be specific. Schedule your medication to be taken at 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. for example. Tailor the time to your wake-up and bedtime routine and also consider if the medication is to be taken with or without food. Having a set time makes it easier to remember.
2. Set your clock to take medications. Make an appointment with yourself to take your meds. If you have a cell phone, this is even better. A reminder to take medications is very helpful.
3. Use a pill box to prepare your medications ahead of time. If you take multiple medications (even if it’s only 2), a pill box is very useful. Having medications ready to quickly pop out of the box makes it easier to follow recommendations. Pill boxes come in a variety of styles including weekly and monthly boxes, and boxes for various times during the same day.
4. If you take multiple medications, ask your doctor if there is a combination medication that includes more than one medication. This may reduce the number of pills you are prescribed and could reduce costs overall.
5. If cost is an issue, don’t let that stop you from being compliant. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about generic medications. Ask about pharmaceutical programs that can help. Consider state-based assistance plans and look into 30-60-90 day refills for cost savings. Also see if mail order is available at a lower cost to you. Some drug companies offer coupons and other financial help so ask what’s available.
6. Keep a chart of your meds. Mark them off the chart each day when you take them as prescribed. You can easily see when you have missed a dose and it will help you stay on track.
7. Talk to your pharmacist about pre-packaging your pills. They may be able to do this for you. This provides you with the correct pills in the correct dosage on the appropriate day and time to take them. This is especially helpful if you take multiple pills at different times each day.
8. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about medication apps. If you have a smart phone, this may be an option. Your healthcare professional can recommend the best app for your situation (there are many available!). Just like tracking your steps and exercise, you can track medications!
9. Don’t let side effects stop you. If you’re experiencing side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. There may be alternative medications available or other ways to eliminate the side effects. Ask for help EARLY rather than stopping your medication and becoming sicker before seeking help!
10. Medications are proven effective before they are prescribed. If you fail to take yours because you don’t believe they work, talk to your doctor. Ask questions! Be honest. Your doctor can’t help you if he or she doesn’t know there is a problem.
11. Sometimes the problem is forgetfulness and that’s okay. Get a “buddy” to help you stay on track. A spouse, adult child, neighbor, or friend is usually happy to help. Ask someone else to help you stay on track and stay healthier!