Improving medication adherence among patients with type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) accounts for the vast majority of diagnosed diabetes cases and is a considerable burden to the US health care system. However, patients with T2DM often fail to adhere to treatment for numerous reasons including concerns about administration, mode, timing, convenience, adverse events, and cost. As the prevalence of T2DM and the complexity of therapeutic regimens increases, the role of pharmacists in educating patients about treatment benefits, administration techniques, dosage flexibility, and avoiding side effects is critical and may optimize care by increasing the likelihood of treatment adherence. In addition, pharmacists are in a unique position to assess which patients are not taking medications as they are prescribed and can therefore determine the most effective methods to promote adherence. This article will examine the causes of nonadherence in T2DM and the integral role that pharmacists can play in improving medication adherence and persistence. Strategies for improving adherence, such as patient education, motivational interviewing, medication therapy management programs, and collaborative management, will also be considered.