A Scoping Review of Digital Behavioral Approaches to Improve Medication Adherence in Type 2 Diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Consistent medication adherence is fundamental for achieving favorable health outcomes in diabetes care; however, attaining optimal adherence remains a challenge. This review summarized recent evidence on digital behavioral interventions designed to improve medication adherence in type 2 diabetes (T2D) and identified key components commonly incorporated in these interventions. RECENT FINDINGS: Thirty-two studies evaluating digital strategies to support medication adherence were identified. Interventions were delivered through a range of digital platforms, including mobile apps, short message service messaging, telemedicine systems, conversational artificial intelligence, and remote monitoring technologies. Medication adherence was assessed using a variety of measures, including self-reported adherence questionnaires, medication-taking records, and refill-based measures. Most studies reported improvements in medication adherence, and several also observed improvements in glycemic outcomes, most commonly A1C. Effective interventions frequently combined reminders, educational content, self-monitoring tools, and patient-provider communication. Digital behavioral interventions represent increasingly utilized strategies to promote medication adherence among individuals with T2D. Multifaceted digital approaches that integrate behavioral support, monitoring, and communication may enhance long-term diabetes self-management and treatment engagement. Recent advances have focused on improving personalization, integration across digital platforms, and interactive patient support rather than introducing entirely new digital modalities.