Taking your medication as directed in terms of dose, timing, manner, and frequency is the aspect of adhering to your medication regimen. This is a crucial aspect of taking medication and simply put, failing to take them as directed by your doctor or pharmacist could cause your condition to either worsen, lead to hospitalisation, or even death. Let us explore this topic further.
Why do individuals not take medications as prescribed?
There are many reasons why many do not take medications according to their doctor’s directions.
For example:
-Failing to comprehend the instructions,
-Forgetting,
-Taking various prescriptions with different regimens,
-Experiencing unpleasant side effects,
-The medication not appearing to function.
Individuals who cannot afford their prescriptions may decide to take less of the medication recommended to extend its duration.
Why should you take medications as prescribed?
As mentioned above, medication must be taken exactly as directed if you want to maintain your health and well-being. This also helps to regulate a chronic disorder or treat an acute condition. The ability to relate to your doctor or pharmacist on a human level is crucial for drug compliance. Although you play the most crucial role by taking all medications as prescribed, your doctor or pharmacist can offer advice on the best way to take them.
Tips for adhering to prescribed medications
· Make sure to take your prescription at the same time each day,
· Include it in your daily routine – just like eating or brushing your teeth, · Record each time you take a dose on a ‘medication calendar’ to keep track, · Use a pill box or container – some include dividers to distinguish different times, · Refill the pill box every week at the same time – this creates a healthy routine, · Set alarms for when you need to take your medications,
· Ensure you take enough of your prescription during a holiday trip – perhaps take a few extra in case your return is delayed,
· When flying, keep medications in your carry-on bag – preventing difficulties if the luggage is misplaced. Temperatures in the luggage cargo may also fluctuate affecting the medications.
Almost everyone has taken medication at some point, whether it was an antibiotic for a temporary illness or medication for a chronic illness. Above we have seen the importance of taking your medication as prescribed. A vital point to remember is to ask your doctor or pharmacist when you have any questions regarding your medication. Remember, you play the most crucial role in taking your medications as prescribed.
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Charlot Cauchi is a Gestalt Psychotherapist at Willingness. He has experience working with adult clients with mental health difficulties, anxiety and depression, loss and grief, traumatic experiences, stress and relational issues.
References Smith, DF, Ruben, MD, Francey, LJ, Walch, OJ & Hogenesch, JB. (2019). Why you should keep taking your meds. Journal of biological rhythms, Vol. 34(6) pp 582–583. Sage Publications.