Key takeaways

Compliance with medication is crucial, yet 50% of prescribed medications are not taken as directed, largely due to forgetfulness.
Medisafe Pill Reminder is highlighted as the top app for medication reminders, offering personalized alerts and drug interaction warnings.
Mango Health and MyTherapy are apps that not only remind users to take their medications but also help track overall health and set healthy habit goals.
For those without smartphones, tools like TabTime Vibe and MedMinder offer physical reminder systems for taking medications, with options for auditory, visual, and vibration alerts.

Compliance with your medication regimen is critical to the drug’s effectiveness and to reduce the risk of adverse events. Plus, certain prescriptions are time-sensitive, such as progestin-only birth control pills and high blood pressure medication, which must be taken at the same time of day. Most people know this, and yet, according to the National Institutes of Health, 75% of Americans don’t take their medications as directed by healthcare providers and pharmacists. Poor medication adherence is thought to contribute to a staggering $500 billion in avoidable healthcare costs. One main cause of these missed medications is simple: forgetfulness.

There are plenty of tips and tricks to remember your medications in the right time window. Still, the most helpful are downloadable apps that provide daily prescription medication reminders via your smartphone, tablet, and smartwatch. These free mobile applications help to automate and track doses, so you’re less likely to miss a pill—especially if you’re taking a number of medications. And if an app isn’t for you, there are tools for that, too.

7 medication reminder apps and tools

We’ve curated a list of some of the best medication reminder apps, available to download on both Google Play for Android users and the Apple App Store for iPhone users—and two additional tools. The bonus? Most of the medication reminder apps below are free. Scroll on to find the right app for your needs.

1. Medisafe Pill Reminder

The Medisafe medication reminder app is known for its user-friendly design and sleek design. It offers personalized reminders for each day, plus additional features like drug interaction warnings, possible side effects, medication reminders, refill alerts when you’re running low, and family scheduling tools. That way, you and a family member or caregiver will get notifications. You can even use it to remind you of your pet’s medication—because they are family too!

2. Dosecast: My Pill Reminder App

Dosecast is a pill reminder app that provides daily reminders for managing medication schedules to make sure you’re taking the right medication at the right time. It tracks medication history, provides information about each medicine, offers a visual image of the medication, and offers refill reminders. The app offers synchronization across multiple devices (like your phone and your Apple Watch), safety alerts for potential drug interactions, and customizable notifications to set up daily, weekly, or monthly reminders. It also tracks your medication adherence so you can share it with your healthcare provider.

3. EveryDose

EveryDose is a comprehensive pill reminder app that helps users manage their medication schedules. With customizable alerts, they can schedule reminders for each medication, ensuring they never miss a dose. Additionally, Everydose offers refill reminders, dosage instructions, and potential side effects, helping users stay informed about their treatment. Medication leaflets are also available to users to help them stay safe and avoid dangerous interactions.

4. MyTherapy Medication Reminder and Pill Tracker

MyTherapy is an app designed to help you stay in control of your health. It includes customized daily pill reminders, measurement tracking, and health and exercise alerts. Helpful overview charts use personal data to track patterns and aid in future goal setting. The app allows users to log their symptoms, moods, and vital signs, providing valuable insights for their healthcare providers.

5. Care4Today Connect

Care4Today Connect is designed to improve medication adherence, facilitate communication between healthcare professionals and patients, and promote overall wellness. You can set reminders at specific times or regular intervals, track your medication intake, and receive personalized health tips. Plus, you can securely communicate with your healthcare team, schedule appointments, and access medical records. Care4Today Connect offers educational resources and health-related news to help you make informed decisions about your health.

6. TabTime Vibe Vibrating Pill Reminder

If mobile apps aren’t your thing, other forms of technology can help manage your medical conditions. While not an app, TabTime’s storage device is a perfect tool for older individuals who don’t have a mobile device but need something more than the run-of-the-mill pill case. Users divide their pills into five compartments and set a customizable alarm that vibrates or beeps as a reminder to take their pill. Purchase for $21.99.

7. MedMinder

Similar to TabTime, MedMinder is an automated pillbox designed for older adults who require careful pill tracking. Reminders include optional auditory and visual alerts. If the user doesn’t take a dose, caregivers can be notified via phone call or text message. This tool also comes with locked pill dispensers and many other customizable options. Fees start at $125 per month.

We’ve covered some programs that stand out for us, but there are even more out there. If you are struggling with medication adherence, speak with your pharmacist for ideas on how to improve your adherence. Involve friends and family members in your success. If someone you care about is struggling to take medication consistently, don’t be afraid to offer support. Taking your medication as prescribed can improve your health, make you feel better, and prolong your life.

The 7 best prescription reminder apps and tools