Text-message reminders plus incentives increase adherence to antidiabetic medication in adults with type 2 diabetes

J Appl Behav Anal. 2016 Dec;49(4):947-953. doi: 10.1002/jaba.337. Epub 2016 Jul 14.

Abstract

Some adults with Type 2 diabetes mellitus have difficulty adhering to their oral medication regimens. The current study used a multiple baseline design with 3 adults with Type 2 diabetes. Medication taking was monitored remotely in real time via an electronic pill bottle. During the intervention, monetary incentives were delivered contingent on evidence of adherence to taking medication at specified times. Text-message reminders were also sent if medication was not taken. Adherence increased for all participants. Future studies should separate the relative contributions of text-message and incentive components of the intervention.

Keywords: Type 2 diabetes mellitus; contingency management; incentives; medication adherence; text message.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / drug therapy*
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Medication Adherence / psychology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Motivation*
  • Text Messaging*
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Hypoglycemic Agents