Emerging Trends in Medication Adherence Technologies: A Comprehensive Review of Smart Pills and Reminder Systems

Abstract

Background: As the global population of older adults rises, medication adherence has become a critical factor in managing chronic diseases and enhancing health outcomes. Despite the importance of adhering to prescribed medication regimens, non-adherence remains a persistent challenge, particularly among the elderly.

Methods: This review synthesizes current literature on medication adherence technologies, focusing on innovative monitoring solutions such as smart pills and reminder systems. A systematic search was conducted using databases like Google Scholar and IEEE Xplore, covering studies from 2004 to 2023. Articles that discussed technological interventions for medication adherence were included, while editorials and non-research articles were excluded.

Results: The findings illustrate a variety of technology-based solutions designed to improve medication adherence. These include smart pill bottles, wearable sensors, and mobile applications that provide reminders and monitor intake. The review highlights the advantages of these technologies, such as enhanced monitoring capabilities and user engagement, while also acknowledging challenges like user comfort, battery life, and data accuracy. Notably, technologies that integrate with the Internet of Things (IoT) show promise for real-time data transmission and user feedback.

Conclusion: The advancement of medication adherence technologies presents significant potential for improving health outcomes among patients, particularly in the geriatric population. However, further research is needed to address existing limitations and enhance the efficacy of these systems. Future studies should focus on clinical trials to validate the impact of these technologies on adherence rates and health outcomes.