More important, it explains why so many patients don’t get better, suffer surprising relapses or even die when they are given drug prescriptions that should keep their disorders under control. “When the co-pay for a drug hits $50 or more, adherence really drops,” Dr. Bender said. Doctors and pharmacists can use digital technology to interact with patients and periodically reinforce the importance of staying on their medication. With fear of side effects a common deterrent to adherence, doctors should inform patients about likely side effects when issuing a prescription. Failing that, patients should ask: “What, if any, side effects am I most likely to encounter?”Forgetting to take a prescribed drug is a common problem, especially for those ambivalent about taking medication.

Source: New York Times April 17, 2017 09:56 UTC