The Importance of Taking Medications as Prescribed: How Technology Can Help You Stay on Track
As a pharmacist, one of the most crucial and impactful conversations I have with patients is about the importance of taking medications exactly as prescribed. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, recovering after surgery, or treating a short-term illness, your medications are carefully chosen to support your health. That said, staying on track with your medication routine (a concept we call medication adherence) can be harder than it sounds. In fact, about half of patients don’t take their medications as directed, which can lead to worsened health, unnecessary complications, and higher healthcare costs.
Here’s the good news: technology is here to make things easier! Thanks to recent innovations, staying on top of your medications has never been simpler. Let’s dive into why sticking to your medication plan is so crucial and how the latest tech could be exactly what you need.
Why Sticking to Your Medications Matters
Taking your medications as prescribed isn’t just about following instructions — it’s about ensuring the best possible health outcome. When you skip doses, take the wrong amount, or stop too early, it can result in:
- Worsened health outcomes: Conditions may progress or become harder to treat.
- Higher risk of complications: Missing doses can lead to side effects or even dangerous health events.
- Increased healthcare costs: More doctor visits, additional treatments, and hospital stays can quickly add up.
For instance, if you’re managing high blood pressure, missing doses could increase your risk of heart attack or stroke. Similarly, for those with diabetes, skipping medications can lead to serious complications like nerve damage or kidney failure.
The Role of Technology in Medication Adherence
Here’s where technology steps in. Modern tools are designed to simplify your medication routine, making it easier to take your medications on time and in the right amounts. Here are some game-changing innovations:
1. Medication Reminder Apps
Many people rely on smartphones for everything, and there are now a number of apps designed to remind you when to take your medication. These apps can send notifications, set up schedules, and even provide detailed instructions on how to take each medication. Some apps allow you to track your progress and even notify a loved one or healthcare provider if you miss a dose.
- Example: Medisafe is one popular app that allows you to input your medications, dosage, and times, and then provides notifications and reminders. It also tracks your adherence over time, helping you stay motivated and on track.
2. Smart Medication Dispensers
For people who take multiple medications or have a complex regimen, traditional pill bottles can become overwhelming. Medication dispensers, which allow you to fill a device with your own medications and schedule when each dose should be dispensed, can help you stay organized.
- How it works: These devices have multiple compartments where you place your medications. At the designated time, the dispenser automatically releases the correct dose, helping you avoid confusion or missed doses.
- Example: Hero is a smart dispenser that stores and dispenses your medications. It sends alerts to caregivers when a dose is missed and allows you to monitor the system via an app.
3. Smart Medication Dispensers with Clinical Oversight
For those with more complex health needs, or for caregivers who manage the medication regimens of others, clinically managed medication dispensers are the next evolution in medication management. These devices dispense medications that are reviewed, organized, and prepared by pharmacists, and remote monitored by healthcare providers, making them a great option for those who want peace of mind about their care.
- How it works: These dispensers use pre-packaged medications, alerting you and dispensing the correct dose (prepared and scheduled by pharmacists) at the right time.
- Example: Custom Health alerts when it’s time to take medications, and tracks when they're taken. Bluetooth-connected devices are provided to collect health data, like blood pressure, which, along with medication adherence, is monitored by our clinicians in real-time to make timely adjustments that optimize results. And yes, we also have a caregiver app!
How Technology Makes Life Easier
With these tools, managing medications can be less of a hassle and more of a habit. Here’s how they help:
- Simplify your routine: Apps and dispensers keep everything organized and on schedule.
- Increase your independence: Whether your regimen is simple or complex, these tools make it manageable.
- Provide peace of mind: Smart systems track your progress and alert you to missed doses, so nothing slips through the cracks.
- Enhance care: Connected devices give healthcare providers the insights they need to adjust your treatment if necessary.
Getting Started with Medication Management Tools
Adopting health technology can be more affordable than you think, and many are covered by healthcare payors. It's important to understand your options and see what's available to you, so you can take advantage of what's best for you and your family. The goal is to make your medication experience as easy and effective as possible — and these tools are here to help you do just that.
Conclusion
Taking your medications as prescribed is essential for better health outcomes and preventing complications. With the support of innovative technology, staying on top of your medication regimen has never been easier. By incorporating these tools into your daily routine, you’re taking a meaningful step toward improved health, greater independence, and more confidence in your treatment. Your health matters, and the right solution is out there for you!
Taking meds as prescribed isn’t just about following orders—it’s to make sure they're working—so you can stay healthy and happy!

About the author
Kristen Antunes holds a BSP in Pharmacy from the University of Saskatchewan. She is the Director of Clinical Outcomes and her experience as a clinical pharmacist, spin instructor, and meditation teacher make her a well-rounded health and wellness expert. She leads patient engagement initiatives and works with community pharmacists to obtain meaningful results. For a patient or a population, improving health outcomes is her jam!