The Trouble with Daily Medications: From Forgetfulness to Affordability

We live in an interesting time where science provides medications for any number of ailments. In fact, a Mayo Clinic study found 70% of the U.S. takes at least one medication a day. This included vaccines, antidepressants, and antibiotics. Most meds are taken by women and the elderly.

Daily medications are a life-saving necessity for many.

One must wonder… how do you keep up with it all?

We have apps that’ll set reminders and pillboxes marked for each day. We create checkboxes on our calendars and ask friends/family to keep us reminded. What else can we do to stay steady with their intake while reducing the costs?

No. 1: Talk with your pharmacist

Blood pressure and anxiety medications are among the most heavily used. Many are found on ‘critical medications’ lists like insulin, antiepileptic agents, opiates, and more. These are medications doctors and pharmacies cannot withhold if a person requires daily usage.

Pharmacists and their techs are skilled and knowledgeable about the industry and your routine. They’re easier to contact than your doctor. Ask for their suggestions on keeping track, or if they will do a wellness check if you become forgetful.

No. 2: Re-examine the big retailers

Local and grocery store pharmacies aren’t your only option for finding affordable medication and helpful advice. Re-examine what’s available at big retailers such as the Walmart $4 prescription list or if there are Canadian pharmacies located in your area.

The big retailers and foreign pharmacies may only care generics. But, it’s very likely generics is appropriate for your ailments or conditions. Membership is free for most places.

No. 3: Check with the manufacturer

The pharmaceutical industry is a business meaning there are profit margins they’re willing to flex to keep you a satisfied, paying customer. This means they may work with you by offering discounts or financial assistance for their medications.

Some manufacturers offer free in-store coupons you can print at home, too!

There are many websites providing a full list of manufacturer coupons and discount codes. Browse their list and community feedback to save even if you’re underinsured or cannot afford insurance.

No. 4: Stay on top of it

If you’re noticing you have extra medications at the end of the month, then it’s a good sign you’re becoming forgetful or negligent. Likewise, it’s never good to “stretch” your medication by dividing your dosage by cutting them in half.

What happens if you abuse the medication routine? Physical and mental injury, honestly.

A few methods were already mentioned but also consider:

• Keep a journal if you missed medications and talk to your doctor about the issue
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• Keep the medications in an easily accessible location like next to your coffee pot
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• Keep reminders about the benefits why you’re taking the meds to reinforce your routine

If possible, have a person help with medication planning. Fill out multiple, color-coordinated pillboxes and have them check they’re all there. Then, mark each day on the calendar.

No. 5: Talk with local institutions

Community outreach programs are likely available in your area.

These outreach programs provide:

• Medication and educational programs to understand ailments
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• Possible access to low-income financial services to help afford meds

Get in touch with Community Medication Access Program and the Medication Access Program if they’re available in your area. Or, if there is an equivalent. These programs are often present at local church affiliations offering medication to those in financial hardship.

Know Yourself and Your Medications

People forget to take their medications. It happens.

But, it’s important you don’t overreact and try “doubling down” to balance the effect. Get back into the routine by taking the next dose at your usual time if you forgot. If the problem is more than forgetfulness, then consider one (or all) of the options included in this post. Either way, attempt to do them, regardless, since it’ll save money.