Journal article

Improving medication adherence in type 2 diabetes: strategies for better clinical and economic outcomes

PJ Highton, MP Funnell, P Gupta, F Zaccardi, LL Lim, S Seidu, K Khunti

Diabetologia | Published : 2026

Open access

Abstract

Medication adherence is critical for optimal glycaemic management and the prevention of complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Despite its importance, non-adherence remains a prevalent issue, with global estimates suggesting that approximately 38% of people with type 2 diabetes do not take their medications as prescribed, although estimates vary widely due to a range of patient-related, socioeconomic, condition-related (e.g. chronicity, severity of comorbidities) and healthcare system factors. This review synthesises the current evidence on the prevalence of non-adherence in type 2 diabetes, as well as risk factors and clinical and economic consequences, and evaluates interventions desig..

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University of Melbourne Researchers