What does "adherence" mean in medication therapy?

In the context of medication therapy, "adherence" specifically refers to the extent to which patients follow the prescribed medication regimens as directed by their healthcare providers. This includes taking the right dose of medication at the right times and for the prescribed duration. Adherence is crucial for achieving the desired therapeutic outcomes, as non-adherence can lead to treatment failure, disease progression, and increased healthcare costs.

Understanding adherence is important for healthcare providers, as it helps them identify potential barriers to proper medication use, such as misunderstanding instructions or experiencing side effects. Ensuring that patients are adhering to their therapy can significantly improve overall health outcomes and effectiveness of treatment plans.