Adherence to medication

Abstract

Adherence to (or compliance with) a medication regimen is generally defined as the extent to which patients take medications as prescribed by their health care providers. Poor adherence to medication regimens is common, contributing to substantial worsening of disease, death, and increased health care costs. This article presents the main aspects of adherence problem, including definitions, causes of occurrence and assessment methods. Special attention is paid to methods improving adherence regarding to patient education, treatment regimens optimization and improving communications between physicians and patients.