Lung Cancer
Medication Adherence
Taking your medication as directed is crucial for success
Some lung cancer patients now have the option of taking molecular and targeted therapy medications in the comfort of their home. These new therapies are typically oral medications that you are responsible for taking on time, every time, also known as medication adherence. Correctly taking your medication is important because it can influence the effectiveness of the therapy and the management of side effects.
Most cancer therapies are designed to maintain a specific level of drugs in your system for a certain time based on your cancer type and stage, your overall health, previous therapies and other factors. If your medications are not taken exactly as prescribed, the consequences can lead to unnecessary or unrelieved side effects, physician visits, hospitalizations and even cancer progression. To be fully effective, every treatment dose must be taken with the same kind of accuracy, precise timing and safety precautions, for as long as prescribed.
Talk with your doctor before treatment begins about how and when to take your medication. It can be challenging to remember to take your medications, especially if you feel overwhelmed or confused by your treatment plan. Don’t be afraid to ask for help managing your treatment at home.
Download the Patient Resource Medication Journal to keep track of your medications at PatientResource.com/Medication_Journal
