On Tuesday, February 18, 2025, our very own Treasurer, Pharm. Ngozi Uzokwe, alongside Pharm. Abimbola Ojo, was featured on the popular radio program ‘30 Minutes with a Pharmacist’ on Classic FM 97.3. This insightful session, held from 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM, focused on the crucial topic of “Building Healthy Habits for Better Medication Adherence.”
As medication adherence remains a significant challenge in healthcare, this session provided listeners with practical strategies to improve medication-taking habits and understand the importance of following prescribed treatments.
Key Highlights of the Discussion
The session was structured into six key discussion points, each addressing vital aspects of medication adherence:
1️⃣ What is Medication Adherence and Why is it Important?
The speakers emphasized the significance of following prescribed treatments to maintain optimal health and prevent complications. They highlighted how poor adherence can lead to ineffective treatment, disease progression, and increased healthcare costs.
2️⃣ How Can Simplifying a Medication Regimen Improve Adherence?
Pharm. Uzokwe and Pharm. Ojo discussed how healthcare providers can streamline medication regimens to enhance adherence.
- Reducing the number of pills per day
- Setting regular schedules to create consistency
- Providing alternative medication forms (such as liquid medications or patches for those who struggle with pills)
3️⃣ What Strategies Can Healthcare Providers Use to Support Medication Adherence?
Healthcare providers play a pivotal role in helping patients stick to their medications. The speakers outlined effective strategies, such as:
- Clear communication about medication benefits and side effects
- Providing medication reminders (via mobile apps, calls, or text messages)
- Using patient-friendly packaging to ensure ease of use
4️⃣ How Can Patients Manage Complex Medication Regimens Effectively?
Managing multiple medications can be overwhelming, but with proper strategies, adherence becomes easier. Listeners were encouraged to:
- Use pill organizers to sort daily doses
- Set phone reminders or alarms for medication times
- Seek family support to help keep track of medications
5️⃣ What Are the Consequences of Not Adhering to Prescribed Medications?
The speakers warned about the risks associated with non-adherence, including:
- Missed doses leading to treatment failure
- Worsening of health conditions
- Development of drug resistance, especially in chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and infectious diseases
6️⃣ What Role Does Patient Education Play in Medication Adherence?
Educating patients on the benefits of adherence can significantly improve health outcomes. Pharm. Uzokwe and Pharm. Ojo emphasized:
- The need for pharmacists to actively counsel patients at every prescription refill
- Encouraging open conversations about concerns and possible side effects
- Providing educational materials to reinforce the importance of adherence
A Successful Session with Valuable Insights
The session was an engaging and enlightening discussion that shed light on practical ways to improve medication adherence. Listeners gained valuable knowledge on how to incorporate healthy habits into their daily routines to ensure they get the maximum benefit from their medications. Thanks to ACPN and Emzor Pharmaceutical for the support and sponsorship.
At PSN-YPG Lagos, we are committed to empowering the public with healthcare knowledge and enhancing patient outcomes through advocacy, education, and pharmacist-led initiatives. We look forward to more collaborations that continue to make a lasting impact on public health.