In practice, a lot of effort goes into choosing the right medicine for the right patient. But once the prescription leaves the clinic, a new uncertainty begins will the medicine actually be taken as intended? This gap between prescribing and real-world use is where medication adherence quietly becomes a major concern.
Many patients do not follow their treatment plans exactly as advised. Sometimes doses are missed; sometimes therapy is stopped early when symptoms improve. The reasons vary widely complex schedules, side effects, cost issues, simple forgetfulness, or even confusion about instructions. Whatever the cause, the impact can be significant.
When medicines are not taken properly, even well-designed treatment plans may appear to “fail.” This can lead to unnecessary dose escalation, additional drugs, or avoidable hospital visits. The challenge is that non-adherence often stays hidden unless someone actively looks for it.
Addressing the issue rarely depends on reminders alone. Clear counselling, practical dosing schedules, and building patient trust all make a difference. Every healthcare professional encounters a different side of this problem.
It raises a useful point for reflection:
How often do we check adherence before assuming the medicine itself isn’t working?
MBH/AB