Over A Quarter Of Brits Are Not Taking Their Medicines Correctly, UK

Main Category: Pharmacy / Pharmacist
Article Date: 04 Jan 2010 - 2:00 PDT

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Many people stock up on medicines in the run up to Christmas and New Year. A survey* conducted by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has discovered that 29% of people in the United Kingdom, over the age of 50, admit they forget to take their prescribed medicine. While 22% stop taking their medicine before the end of the course if they feel better.

People who take prescribed medicines may take less than half the prescribed dose. Some forget, some misunderstand the instructions, and some refuse to believe they need medicines treatment at all.

John Turk, NPA Chief Executive said: "The statistics are not surprising as it is not always possible for GPs to enter into extended explanations about particular treatments, and even if they do patients may not remember or take in all the information provided."

"Most people associate their local pharmacy with the dispensing of prescriptions and see it as a place where they can also buy medicines over the counter. However, pharmacists should be seen as the first port of call for healthcare advice and the best source of advice on medicines. No other health professional is as highly trained in medicines and their use as a pharmacist."

The Medicines Use Review service at community pharmacies in England and Wales is a free service that helps improve people's understanding and makes sure people get the most out of their medicines. The Medicines Use Review consultation is held in an area where the patient and the pharmacist can have a private discussion.

The NPA is keen to encourage people to make more use of clinical services available from community pharmacy. Despite the fact that pharmacists have five years' training and are highly accessible many people are still unaware that they can discuss any aspect of their medicine related care with their pharmacist.

Notes

*survey conducted by GfK NOP

Source
National Pharmacy Association (NPA)

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