More than 40% of individuals prescribed long-term medication in France have forgotten to take a dose at least once in the past year, with those under 35 particularly prone to non-adherence, according to a recent survey by OpinionWay for Medintechs.
The issue of medication adherence – patients following prescribed regimens – is a significant public health concern, extending beyond France and growing alongside the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. France alone counts 20 million individuals living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, renal disease, hypertension, and cancer. “Diseases that were once rapidly fatal have turn into manageable thanks to advances in prevention, early detection, and treatment,” explained Professor Gérard Friedlander, emeritus professor of physiology at the University of Paris Cité, and delegate general of the Université Paris Cité Foundation. “However, these treatments often require patients to self-administer medication at home, and many struggle to consistently do so.”
Patients frequently pause treatment, skip doses, or take incorrect dosages, often without informing their physicians. The OpinionWay survey revealed that one-third of patients have independently modified their treatment plan without consulting a healthcare professional.
The financial implications of non-adherence are substantial. While most patients acquire prescribed medications, discarding unused drugs represents a significant waste for the national healthcare system. Professor Friedlander emphasized that the broader costs – including those associated with disease aggravation, hospitalizations, and premature mortality – could amount to hundreds of billions of euros annually worldwide.
Several factors contribute to the problem. Over half of those surveyed cited “fatigue” from long-term treatment as a reason for non-adherence, while 42% expressed doubts about the treatment’s effectiveness. Complexity of regimens – multiple daily doses or dietary restrictions – and a desire for greater freedom also played a role, particularly among younger patients. Patients often seek clarification from pharmacists after leaving their doctor’s office, highlighting a potential gap in initial communication. Misinformation and skepticism, such as long-standing negative perceptions of statins despite evidence of their cardiovascular benefits, further complicate the issue.
Improving adherence requires a multi-faceted approach. The survey indicated that simplifying treatment schedules – fewer doses or more convenient timing – was favored by 19% of respondents. Providing tools for tracking medication, such as pillboxes or mobile applications, and offering clearer explanations during prescription were also seen as beneficial. What we have is particularly crucial for elderly patients who often manage multiple medications simultaneously.
Solutions include therapeutic education to reinforce the value of treatment, better addressing patient-reported side effects and anxieties, and practical aids like pill organizers filled by caregivers or pharmacists. Packaging that clearly indicates the medication, dosage, and timing can also promote adherence. “We all have a responsibility in this area – doctors, pharmacists, manufacturers, caregivers, patients, and the media,” Professor Friedlander stated.
