Medication compliance means taking the correct amount of the prescribed medication at the proper time. Medicine will only be effective when taken as prescribed by your physician.

The Importance of Medication Compliance

Medicine is effective when taken as prescribed by your doctor.  Medication compliance means taking the right dose at the right time. Ways to help remember to take your medication on-time include such things as:

• Taking medications at the same time as a normal daily routine (e.g. at bedtime, at breakfast time, with dinner).
• Setting alarms to remind you at the same time each day to take your medication.
• Using a pill box allows you to organize your medication and to notify you if you have missed any doses. If you forget a dose of your medication, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Never stop taking medication on your own because you feel better. In most cases stopping your medication will only make you feel worse. Talk to your physician about any concerns you may have with your medications. If you find you are having trouble remembering to take your medication or missing several  talk to your physician or pharmacist about ways to make it easier for you to remember. They may be able to simplify your medication regimen or suggest another method to help you remember your medications. Never hide noncompliance from your health care provider.