Treatment: taking medicines correctly

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Extract from the article: A patient suffering from a chronic illness must scrupulously adhere to the treatment prescribed in order to stabilise his or her state of health. However, in practice, compliance with treatment often fails due to a number of factors: forgetfulness, e

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A patient suffering from a chronic illness must scrupulously adhere to the treatment prescribed in order to stabilise his or her state of health. However, in practice, compliance with treatment often fails due to a number of factors: forgetfulness, errors in use or a conscious decision to stop treatment. In Togo, adherence to treatment among chronic patients is far from optimal. Why is this the case, and what can patients do to follow their treatment effectively on a daily basis?

Taking medication every day can be seen as a burden. ‘Adhering to a course of treatment is not always easy. The therapy seems understandable and achievable during the interview with the doctor, but once at home, it becomes more complicated to follow, and additional questions arise’, stresses Dr Nasser Badabaké, internist at the CHU Campus in Lomé.

It's sometimes difficult to integrate the treatment into daily life, especially when several drugs have to be taken at different times. What's more, when side effects appear, some patients choose to temporarily suspend treatment. Others, seeing an improvement in their symptoms, decide on their own to stop their treatment. ‘This explains why some drugs prescribed by doctors are never taken or are abandoned along the way. This is what we call failure to comply with treatment’, explains the specialist.

Causes of non-adherence

A number of factors compromise the motivation to take medication correctly. Dr Nasser Badabaké points out that some patients, in disagreement with their prescription, do not follow their treatment as prescribed. The lack of perceived benefits, particularly for silent chronic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension, can also discourage adherence. The negative influence of family and friends, the fear of side-effects, and reading the leaflets that mention them often lead patients to stop taking their medication. Lack of trust in healthcare professionals makes it difficult to accept prescriptions. Some patients refuse to accept their illness and its consequences, complicating their treatment. The complexity of treatments, with several drugs to be taken, and the sometimes high cost of prescriptions are other obstacles.

The specialist also mentions mixing medicines with herbal infusions, which undermines the effectiveness of the treatment. Finally, medical nomadism, where patients frequently change doctors and treatments, as well as ignorance, are also causes of failure to comply with treatment.

Improving compliance with treatment

Knowing your medicines and what they are used for is essential. You need to ask your pharmacist and doctor questions to understand their short- and long-term action. If you experience any side effects, it's important to tell your pharmacist as soon as possible, so that he or she can suggest solutions. Choosing a pharmacist who listens to you makes it easier for you to adhere to your treatment. During consultations, don't hesitate to ask for a medication plan and be well prepared. Being better informed about your illness and treatment can help you manage your health more effectively. Dr Badabaké stresses the importance of information and dialogue between doctors and patients: ‘You have to explain to the patient why you are prescribing a drug, its indications and its side effects. In our environment, information is difficult to convey because of language and intellectual barriers. So it's crucial to adapt our communication.

A personal commitment to health

Compliance with treatment must be a personal commitment to preserving your health. Treatment can only be effective if it is followed rigorously. Understanding their illness and its treatment enables patients to take charge of their own health. It is essential to ask questions, express concerns and establish a relationship of trust with healthcare professionals. Good compliance with treatment is an important step towards greater well-being and a better quality of life.

Raymond DZAKPATA