What is a common reason patients may take less medication than they should?

Patients often take less medication than prescribed due to financial constraints. When prescribed medication, some individuals may find the cost burdensome, particularly if their insurance does not cover it or if they face high copays, making it difficult to fill their prescriptions or maintain consistent medication use. This can lead them to skip doses, take less than prescribed, or forego the medication altogether, impacting their overall health outcomes.

While preferences for natural remedies, forgetfulness, and misunderstanding dosages can also lead to non-adherence, these reasons do not encapsulate the financial pressures that may lead patients to intentionally take less medication. Understanding the financial challenges patients face is crucial for healthcare providers, as it can help in finding affordable alternatives or solutions to ensure they adhere to their treatment plans effectively.