Getting patients to take medication is no easy task

One in three prescriptions is never filled by patients, and even having a pill at home is hardly a guarantee it will be taken. In recent reporting, we explored the latest ways to encourage patients to be more compliant in taking medication. A common situation among older patients involves coping with several prescriptions at once. A Geriatric Consult column offered advice geared to that population. Other coverage presented clinical journal guidance on another situation with special compliance issues -- patients who are depressed.

Tactics to improve drug compliance

After a drug is developed, approved and prescribed, the patient should take the medicine, but it isn't that easy. These strategies can help.

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Polypharmacy raises risks of side effects, skipped pills

Geriatric Consult: Elderly patients often juggle three or more medications, often prescribed by different doctors.

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Depressed patients with chronic illnesses less likely to take medications

Noncompliance is a clue that depression could be the cause, a study finds.

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