We Share | Smart Steps to Medication Success

18 Jul 2025 | SHP POP!

(Photo: Canva @digicomphoto/science photo library)

Medications have an essential role in managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. However, studies in Singapore showed that 25.7% to 56.4% of patients do not take their medications as prescribed¹. When one does not take medications as prescribed or follow a prescription instruction, the likelihood of hospital admissions, worsening symptoms and higher healthcare costs in the future increases.

Medication non-adherence is a common and unfortunate reality in healthcare and here are some of the common reasons:

1. Forgetfulness

2. Lack of understanding of the medications

3. Complex medication schedules

4. Fear of adverse side effects

5. Cost concerns

Identifying the root cause for medication non-adherence is the first step to addressing the problem. Let us look at five tips that can make all the difference in increasing adherence rates and improving health outcomes.

1. Maintain a medication routine

a. Keep all your medications in one place and in visible spots to avoid “out of sight, out of mind”

b. Set a specific time each day to take your medication. For example, take your medication after a specific activity, such as brushing teeth or after dinner

2. Understand the importance of your medications

Take time to understand how your medications work and why it is important for your health. This will motivate you to be adherent to your medications.

For example, you may not feel physically sick when you have high blood pressure, and do not see the need for any medication. However, high blood pressure can cause complications such as a heart attack or stroke.

3. Employ strategies to overcome complex medication schedules

a. Request your doctor or pharmacist to review or simplify your medication regimen

b. Use a pill box to organise and keep track of different medications

c. Set reminders using your handphone, or have a family member or friend to remind you to take your medication

(Photo: Canva @LunaKate)

4. Managing side effects

While medication side effects may occur, most people experience minimal to no side effects. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are finding it difficult to manage the side effects. You should also read your medication labels or check medication information leaflets on SingHealth’s website or HealthHub.

5. Managing the cost of medications

If cost is a concern, check with your doctor or pharmacist if there are lower cost alternatives available.

At SingHealth Polyclinics, our doctors may also refer you to a Medical Social Worker for evaluation of financial assistance eligibility to receive financial support for your medications.

As the saying by former Surgeon General of the United States, C. Everett Koop, goes, “Medications do not work in patients who do not take them.” Consider the tips above to help you better manage your medications, which will contribute to better health and quality of life. Whenever in doubt, please reach out to your healthcare provider.

This article was contributed by Patient Education Workgroup, with inputs from Rachel Khoo Shu Yuen, Principal Pharmacist, SingHealth Polyclinics.

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