Staying on Track with Medication Routines

I wanted to check in with everyone about their medication routines. I've noticed that forgetting to take medication is a common issue in our COPD and Alpha-1 communities. I've been guilty of it myself lately, missing doses of my arthritis medications.

My routine has been disrupted due to unexpected family and friend health events, and I need to get back on track. Not only have I neglected my medication routine, but I've also been slacking on my daily exercise and step count.

Simple strategies to stay on track with medications

Here are some methods that have helped me in the past:

Keeping a weekly pill box filled and ready to go

This helps me know if I have taken my meds for the day and remember what day of pills I am on. This last month, living in and out of a suitcase, I was just bringing my bag of meds along and taking them as I thought of them. I know I probably missed many doses some days. I can't believe I did that to myself. I know I can do better.

Consistent timing

Taking my medications at the same time every day helps my body adjust to the routine.

Set reminders or receive text reminders on your phone if you are like me and forget

According to one study, patients who received text messages and reminders on their phones had a higher rate of medication adherence compared to those who did not.¹

Medication reminder app

There are many medication reminder apps out there. I did turn mine off this past month as well, which didn't help me at all, but I am going to turn it back on and update it when I get done here. I should have done it much sooner. You can find free med reminder apps in your app store on your phone or tablet. 

The 2 nebulizers and my smart vest (high-frequency chest wall oscillation technology to dislodge mucus from the bronchial walls) are easy enough to remember. I do them first thing in the morning and last thing before I go to bed. 

The daily COPD inhaler that I take is easy as well. I take one puff one time a day and take it after my breathing treatments. I keep it with my nebulizer machine so that I remember to take it after I'm finished with the treatment.

Getting back on track

I'm hoping to re-establish my routine and get back on track with my medications, exercise, and step count. I'd love to hear from you.

What strategies do you use to stay on top of your medication routines? Please share your tips in the comments below.