Consistency is key

Whether you take medication that is prescribed by your doctor, or you are taking supplements to improve your health and wellbeing, we all know that taking your medications regularly is essential. For prescribed medications in particular, missing doses can have potentially dangerous effects on your health.

However, many people struggle to remember to take medications every day. In fact, studies have shown that as many as 50% of people who are prescribed medications struggle to take them as advised.

If you’re rushing out the door or have a dozen other things on your mind – life gets in the way and taking your pills can be the first thing to slip from your routine.

Some medications are even harder to remember if they must be taken once a week. Pills for bone health (bisphosphonates such as alendronic acid) or some immunosuppressants (like methotrexate) must be taken 7 days apart to maximise the effectiveness.

 

Healthy habits

Building healthy habits isn’t easy, but there are some ways to improve your chances.

So, here are some top tips for remembering your pills

 

1. Fit it into your existing routine

Habits are powerful things, and rather than trying to force a new habit from scratch why not build your pills into an existing routine? 

Try it out for 1 week - take your pills when you’re doing something such as brushing your teeth or making your morning coffee. It should stick after that

 

2. A visual reminder

Rather than tucking your pills away in a cupboard or drawer, put your medication somewhere you’ll definitely see it. The bathroom counter or your bedside table would both be good spots.

Make this tip a little easier on the eyes with our Pill Box.

 

3. Set an alarm

Set a regular alarm or reminder on your phone or watch to prompt you to take your tablets.

This one is particularly useful if some need to be taken at exact times, or if you’re usually busy when it’s time for your tablets and need an interruption.

 

4. Recruit some help

It can help to have a supportive person on your side to check in with you regularly, especially if you’re trying to form a new habit from scratch.

A gentle reminder from them regularly can make all the difference in building that routine.

 

5. Use a pill organiser

A weekly pill organiser is a great visual reminder to take your tablets and prevents double dosing. You can take it with you if you’re out and about to make sure you take your medications on time.

Choose a day (usually Sunday) to fill up the organiser and then you’re all set for the week ahead.

If you take a tablet weekly or every other day, you can be sure you’re taking the correct doses.

Check out our chic 7-day pill organiser here.