Not taking medicines as prescribed by your surgeon may prove dangerous because it may negatively impact the outcome of the entire treatment. Not taking medicines as prescribed by your surgeon is non-adherence to treatment. Non-adherence to treatment can take a variety of forms and may include the following.
- Not having your prescriptions filled,
- Taking incorrect or extra doses,
- Forgetfulness in taking doses, or stoppage of therapy too soon,
- Even taking medications at the wrong time.
Non-adherence to treatment is widely prevalent. It is very common because it requires you to be invested enough in your own health to take your medicines right. The reasons for not taking medicines can be varied and can include not understanding the directions, forgetfulness, multiple medications with different regimens, unpleasant side effects or having a feeling that the medication does not seem to be working. Cost also is a factor that can cause medication non-adherence. Taking your medicine as prescribed or medication adherence is important for controlling chronic conditions, treating transitory conditions, and overall long-term health and well-being.
As patients, how can you stick to your medication routine ?
- Take your medication at the same time every day- This helps by jogging your memory and helps you to remember. Know if you should eat your medicines on an empty stomach or full tummy.
- Keep a “medicine box/calendar” with your pills and note each time you take a dose. When you use a pill container, refill it at the similar time each week. For example, every Sunday morning after breakfast is an easy routine to follow.
- Use timer caps for your pill bottles and set them to go off when your next dose is due.
- When traveling, be sure to carry your medication, plus extra, just in case your return is delayed.
Following your surgeon’s instructions and prescription is very important to have a better results of the surgery. Talk to your surgeon and understand what are medications and lifestyle changes that you need to follow for better recovery.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.