Text message reminders improve methotrexate adherence in people with rheumatoid arthritis

methotrexate reminder, health app, arthritis digest magazine, methotrexate adherenceWeekly text message reminders have a positive impact on methotrexate adherence in adults with rheumatoid arthritis, researchers outline in Arthritis Care & Research.

A total of 96 people who were taking methotrexate with or without biologics were split into three groups; some received text message reminders, others had a 15-minute session with a pharmacist and the final group received no extra care (ie the control group).

Over a six-month period, people who received the text message reminders improved their methotrexate adherence more than those in the other groups, and had higher levels of patient satisfaction. The authors conclude:

“The receipt of [text message] reminders slightly but significantly increase treatment adherence in patients with rheumatoid arthritis taking [methotrexate],” the authors explain. “The relatively low cost of this intervention… might justify its use in the care of patients receiving long-term treatment with [methotrexate].”

Click here to read the original findings.

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