title: How patient beliefs affect adherence to prescribed medication regimens.
abstract: This article analyses the evidence relating to patients' beliefs and adherence to prescribed medication regimens. Between 30% and 50% of patients question the appropriateness and effectiveness of their prescribed medication and often do not comply with their regimens, which means significant amounts of NHS cash is wasted on unused medications. A critical analysis of published literature from several electronic databases and professional journals was undertaken. This showed a strong qualitative relationship between patients' beliefs about their medication and adherence to regimens. Better communication with and involvement of patients in the decision-making process of medication prescribing is significant in reducing misconceptions, improve beliefs and promote adherence to prescribed regimens.
authors.affiliation: University of Greenwich, Kent, UK.
authors.forename: Harry
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Chummun
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Boland
mesh_terms: D011307:Drug Prescriptions; D004358:Drug Therapy; D006801:Humans; D010349:Patient Compliance; D013222:State Medicine; D006113:United Kingdom