Medication Adherence (medication + adherence)

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Distribution within Medical Sciences

Terms modified by Medication Adherence

  • medication adherence report scale

  • Selected Abstracts


    Medication Adherence Among Adolescents in a School-Based Health Center

    JOURNAL OF SCHOOL HEALTH, Issue 2 2006
    Cynthia J. Mears
    Medication adherence for these patients may be challenging because the student is often responsible for bringing home the prescription and receiving the instructions. This study assesses medication fill, initiation, and adherence rates among adolescents in a school-based health center to identify major barriers to medication compliance. Students enrolled in a school-based health center, ,10 years old, able to read and write English, and whose parent had provided consent for participation, were eligible for the study. Eligible students who received a prescription from the health center were invited to return to the clinic a week later to complete a questionnaire (with verbal assent). Primary outcome measures included medication fill rates, medication initiation rates, medication adherence rates, and reasons for nonadherence. Eighty-one students completed the questionnaire: 45 students (55.6%) filled their prescription. Of the students who filled their prescriptions, 75.6% reported always taking their medication at the appropriate time, 22.2% reported sometimes forgetting to take their medication, and 2.2% reported never taking the medication. However, many discrepancies were found between reported medication-taking behavior and the instructions provided to the student. Medication fill, initiation, and adherence rates among students receiving prescriptions for medications in school-based health centers are suboptimal. Interventions that address key identified barriers need to be developed and evaluated in order to achieve optimal fill and adherence rates. (J Sch Health. 2006;76(2):52-56) [source]


    An investigation of medication adherence to 5-aminosalicylic acid therapy in patients with ulcerative colitis, using self-report and urinary drug excretion measurements

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 11-12 2009
    T. MOSHKOVSKA
    Summary Background, Non-adherence to 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) medication can limit the established benefits of this therapy in ulcerative colitis (UC). Aim, To determine rates and predictors of non-adherence to 5-ASA therapy in UC patients. Methods, Medication adherence was assessed using self-report data and urinary drug excretion measurements. Participants completed a study-specific questionnaire and two validated questionnaires: Beliefs about Medicine Questionnaire (BMQ)-Specific and Satisfaction with Information about Medicines Scale. Results, A total of 169 participants provided self-report adherence data; 151 also provided urine samples. Adherence rates were 111/151 (68%) according to self-report and 90/151 (60%) according to urine analysis, but the two measures were not correlated (,2 = 0.12, P = 0.725). Logistic regression identified a significant association between self-reported non-adherence and younger age [odds ratio (OR) for increased age 0.954, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.932,0.976] and also doubts about personal need for medication (OR for BMQ , Specific Necessity scores 0.578, 95% CI 0.366,0.913). For non-adherence based on urine analysis, only South Asian ethnicity was independently associated with non-adherence (OR 2.940, 95% CI 1.303,6.638). Conclusions, Our observations confirm the difficulty of accurately assessing medication adherence. Nonmodifiable (younger age, South Asian ethnicity) and potentially modifiable (medication beliefs) predictors of non-adherence were identified. [source]


    Prevalence and cost of medication nonadherence in Parkinson's disease: Evidence from administrative claims data,

    MOVEMENT DISORDERS, Issue 4 2010
    Keith L. Davis MA
    Abstract We estimated the prevalence of medication nonadherence in Parkinson's disease (PD) and the association between treatment nonadherence and healthcare costs. Insurance claims from over 30 US health plans were analyzed. Inclusion criteria were as follows: PD diagnosis, ,1 PD-related prescription between 1/1/1997 and 12/31/2004, continuous health plan enrollment for ,6 months before and ,12 months after first PD prescription. Adherence, all-cause healthcare utilization, and all-cause costs were evaluated over 12 months post-treatment initiation. Adherence was measured using the medication possession ratio (MPR), with MPR < 0.8 defining nonadherence. Among patients identified for inclusion (N = 3,119), 58% were male and mean age was 69 years. Mean MPR was 0.58 and 61% of patients were nonadherent. Unadjusted mean medical costs were significantly higher (P < 0.01) among nonadherers ($15,826) compared with adherers ($9,228), although nonadherers had lower prescription drug costs ($2,684 vs. $3,854; P < 0.05). After controlling for confounders in multivariable analyses, a large positive relationship between nonadherence and both medical and total healthcare costs remained (+$3,451, P < 0.0001 and +$2,383, P = 0.0053, respectively). Medication adherence in PD is suboptimal and nonadherence may be associated with increased healthcare costs despite offsets from reduced drug intake. Efforts to promote medication adherence in PD may lead to cost savings for managed care systems. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society [source]


    Maternal depressive symptoms and adherence to therapy in inner-city children with Asthma

    CHILD: CARE, HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT, Issue 4 2004
    Richard Reading
    Maternal depressive symptoms and adherence to therapy in inner-city children with Asthma . Bartlet, S.J., Krishnan, J.A., Riekert, K.A., Butz, A.M., Malveaux, F.J. & Rand, C.S. ( 2004 ) Pediatrics113 , 229 , 237 . Context Little is known about how depressive symptoms in mothers affects illness management in inner-city children with asthma. Objective The goal was to determine how maternal depressive symptoms influence child medication adherence, impact of the child's asthma on the mother, and maternal attitudes and beliefs. Methods Baseline and 6-month surveys were administered to 177 mothers of young minority children with asthma in inner-city Baltimore, MD and Washington, DC. Medication adherence, disruptiveness of asthma, and select attitudes toward illness and asthma therapy were measured. Six-month data (n = 158) were used to prospectively evaluate long-term symptom control and emergency department use. Independent variables included asthma morbidity, age, depressive symptoms and other psychosocial data. Results No difference in child asthma morbidity was observed between mothers high and low in depressive symptoms. However, mothers with high depressive symptoms reported significantly more problems with their child using inhalers properly [odds ratio (OR) 5.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3,18.9] and forgetting doses (OR 4.2, 95% CI 1.4,12.4). Depressive symptoms were also associated with greater emotional distress and interference with daily activities caused by the child's asthma, along with less confidence in asthma medications, ability to control asthma symptoms and self-efficacy to cope with acute asthma episodes. In addition, depressed mothers reported less understanding about their child's medications and use (OR 7.7, 95% CI 1.7,35.9). Baseline asthma morbidity, maternal depression scores and family income were independently associated with asthma symptoms 6 months later, whereas medication adherence was not predictive of subsequent asthma morbidity or emergency department use. Conclusions Maternal depressive symptoms were not associated with child asthma morbidity but were associated with a constellation of beliefs and attitudes that may significantly influence adherence to asthma medications and illness management. Identifying and addressing poor psychological adjustment in mothers is important when developing a child's asthma treatment and may facilitate parent,provider communication, medication adherence and asthma management among inner-city children. [source]


    Beliefs about medications: measurement and relationship to adherence in patients with severe mental disorders

    ACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 1 2009
    H. Jónsdóttir
    Objective:, To determine if the Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire (BMQ) has satisfactory psychometric properties in patients with severe mental disorders and if their scores differ from those of patients with severe medical disorders. To investigate if the scores are related to medication adherence. Method:, Two hundred and eighty psychiatric patients completed the BMQ and reported how much of their medication they had taken the past week. Serum concentrations of medications were analyzed. BMQ scores were compared with those of patients with chronic medical disorders. Results:, Cronbach's alpha was satisfactory for all subscales. The psychiatric group scored lower on the necessity of taking medication than the medical group. Non-adherent patients felt medication to be less necessary and were more concerned about it than adherent patients. The necessity subscale predicted adherence fairly well. Conclusion:, The BMQ has satisfactory psychometric properties for use in patients with severe mental disorders. The constructs measured by the BMQ are related to adherence in these patients. [source]


    Fixed-dose combinations in diabetes,do they improve medication adherence?

    DIABETIC MEDICINE, Issue 7 2010
    M. D. Feher
    No abstract is available for this article. [source]


    A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of modafinil (200 mg/day) for methamphetamine dependence

    ADDICTION, Issue 2 2009
    James Shearer
    ABSTRACT Aim To examine the safety and efficacy of modafinil (200 mg/day) compared to placebo in the treatment of methamphetamine dependence and to examine predictors of post-treatment outcome. Participants and design Eighty methamphetamine-dependent subjects in Sydney, Australia were allocated randomly to modafinil (200 mg/day) (n = 38) or placebo (n = 42) under double-blind conditions for 10 weeks with a further 12 weeks post- treatment follow-up. Measures Comprehensive drug use data (urine specimens and self-report) and other health and psychosocial data were collected weekly during treatment and research interviews at baseline, week 10 and week 22. Results Treatment retention and medication adherence were equivalent between groups. There were no differences in methamphetamine abstinence, craving or severity of dependence. Medication-compliant subjects tended to provide more methamphetamine-negative urine samples over the 10-week treatment period (P = 0.07). Outcomes were better for methamphetamine-dependent subjects with no other substance dependence and those who accessed counselling. There were statistically significant reductions in systolic blood pressure (P = 0.03) and weight gain (P = 0.05) in modafinil-compliant subjects compared to placebo. There were no medication-related serious adverse events. Adverse events were generally mild and consistent with known pharmacological effects. Conclusions Modafinil demonstrated promise in reducing methamphetamine use in selected methamphetamine-dependent patients. The study findings support definitive trials of modafinil in larger multi-site trials. [source]


    Adherence to pharmacotherapy in patients with alcohol and opioid dependence

    ADDICTION, Issue 11 2004
    Roger D. Weiss
    ABSTRACT Aims An important factor that has thus far limited the effectiveness of pharmacotherapies for patients with alcohol and opioid dependence is poor adherence to medication regimens. This paper presents a review of issues related to medication adherence in patients with these substance use disorders. Design and methods A literature review was conducted of English language publications relating to medication adherence among patients with alcohol or opioid dependence. Findings The paper places the topic in the context of adherence difficulties among patients with a variety of chronic medical and psychiatric illnesses. Difficulties measuring adherence are discussed, and strategies to improve medication adherence are reviewed. These include specific interventions that prescribing clinicians can implement in their individual meetings with patients; the use of external reinforcers, such as positive and negative contingencies, and involvement of family members or significant others; and specific prescribing and dosing practices that may improve adherence. Conclusions As the use of pharmacotherapy for substance-dependent patients increases, rigorous and innovative approaches to encourage medication adherence should be sought. [source]


    Effects of routine education on people newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes

    EUROPEAN DIABETES NURSING, Issue 3 2009
    A Clarke SRN, PhD Health Promotion & Research Manager
    Abstract Background: In Ireland, there is limited knowledge about the perceptions or behaviours of people newly diagnosed with diabetes and, due to the lack of a national register, poor knowledge of their demographic profile. Aim: To add to the body of knowledge about diabetes, to obtain perceptions of people newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who attend group diabetes education, and to examine their relationships with the adoption of diabetes self-management behaviours. Method: A correlational study was conducted among people attending routine group diabetes education at three diabetes clinics during 2006/7, from which a convenience sample of 168 (38%) participants were recruited. Results: Men newly diagnosed with diabetes were younger, waited less time to attend group diabetes education, had a more positive diabetes attitude and perceived themselves to have more social support than women. Women had better diabetes self-management dietary and medication adherence behaviours prior to attending group diabetes education than the men. Conclusion: People newly diagnosed with diabetes differ in their attitude, perceived support and self-efficacy to adopt dietary and exercise behaviours and have different behaviour change needs at diagnosis. Post-attendance at diabetes education, they adopt behaviours at variable rates and may not sustain the change. The study findings indicate that healthcare professionals should monitor continually the need for behavioural change, in particular physical exercise behaviours in women and dietary and medication adherence in men. They should also continuously assess the maintenance of diabetes self-management behaviours of all people with diabetes, while promoting confidence in achieving desired outcomes. Copyright © 2009 FEND [source]


    Patient preferences for managing asthma: results from a discrete choice experiment

    HEALTH ECONOMICS, Issue 7 2007
    Madeleine T. King
    Abstract Effective control of asthma requires regular preventive medication. Poor medication adherence suggests that patient preferences for medications may differ from the concerns of the prescribing clinicians. This study investigated patient preferences for preventive medications across symptom control, daily activities, medication side-effects, convenience and costs, using a discrete choice experiment embedded in a randomized clinical trial involving patients with mild,moderate persistent asthma. The present data were collected after patients had received 6 weeks' treatment with one of two drugs. Three choice options were presented, to continue with the current drug, to change to an alternative, hypothetical drug, or to take no preventive medication. Analysis used random parameter multinomial logit. Most respondents chose to continue with their current drug in most choice situations but this tendency differed depending on which medication they had been allocated. Respondents valued their ability to participate in usual daily activities and sport, preferred minimal symptoms, and were less likely to choose drugs with side-effects. Cost was also significant, but other convenience attributes were not. Demographic characteristics did not improve the model fit. This study illustrates how discrete choice experiments may be embedded in a clinical trial to provide insights into patient preferences. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


    Barriers to adherence among adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease

    INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES, Issue 1 2010
    Rachel Neff Greenley PhD
    Abstract Background: The purpose of this study was to describe barriers to adherence among adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and to examine demographic, disease-related, and treatment regimen-related correlates of adherence barriers using a multimethod reporting strategy. A final goal was to examine relationships between the frequencies of barriers and levels of nonadherence. Methods: In all, 64 adolescents (ages 11,18) participated, along with 61 mothers and 25 fathers. Barriers to adherence and ratings of medication adherence were assessed via patient and parent reports. Disease activity ratings were provided by pediatric gastroenterologists. Results: Lack of time and medication side effects were commonly reported barriers across adolescent, mother, and father reports. Other adolescent-reported barriers included missing medication due to feeling well or discontinuing medication based on the belief that the medication was not working. The prevalence of adherence barriers was not consistently associated with adolescent age, sex, time since diagnosis, or disease activity. Adolescents whose regimen involved more than 1 daily medication administration had more adherence barriers based on adolescent and maternal report than did those whose regimen involved 1 or less than 1 daily medication administration. Finally, adherence barriers were significantly higher among families reporting imperfect adherence as compared to those reporting perfect adherence. Conclusions: Barriers to medication adherence do exist among adolescents with IBD and may have negative implications for medication adherence. Systematic assessment of barriers during routine medical appointments may help to identify and modify these barriers and ultimately improve adherence. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2010 [source]


    The effects of antidepressant medication adherence as well as psychosocial and clinical factors on depression outcome among older adults

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY, Issue 2 2008
    Hayden B. Bosworth
    Abstract Objective To examine the contribution of medication adherence to 12-month depression scores in the context of other psychosocial and clinical predictors of depression in a sample of older adults treated for depression. Methods Secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study involving 241 older patients undergoing depression treatment using a standardized algorithm. Depression was measured at baseline and 12-months post-baseline. Baseline predictor variables included antidepressant adherence, barriers to antidepressant adherence, four domains of social support, basic and instrumental activities of daily living (BADLs and IADLs), and clinical factors including past history of depression and medical comorbidities. Results Nearly 28% of patients reported being nonadherent with their antidepressant medication. In bivariate analyses, greater antidepressant medication nonadherence, more medication barriers, poorer subjective social support, less non-family interaction, greater BADL and IADL limitations, poor self-rated health, higher baseline depression scores, and not having diabetes were related to higher 12-month depression scores. In multivariable analyses, greater medication nonadherence, not having diabetes, poorer subjective social support, greater BADL limitations, and higher baseline depression scores were related to higher 12-month depression scores. Conclusion Interventions should be directed toward improving antidepressant adherence and modifiable psychosocial variables. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]


    Implementation of a community liaison pharmacy service: a randomised controlled trial

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE, Issue 3 2008
    Tam Vuong PhD
    Objective The aim of this study was to provide a pharmacy service to improve continuity of patient care across the primary-secondary care interface. Setting The study involved patients discharged from two acute-care tertiary teaching hospitals in Melbourne, Australia, returning to independent living. Methods Consecutive patients admitted to both hospitals who met the study criteria and provided consent were recruited. Recruited patients were randomised to receive either standard care (discharge counselling, provision of compliance aids and communication with primary healthcare providers when necessary) or the intervention (standard care and a home visit from a community liaison pharmacist (CLP) within 5 days of discharge). Participant medication was reviewed during the visit according to set protocols and compliance and medication understanding was measured. All participants were telephoned 8,12weeks after discharge to assess the impact of the intervention on adherence and medication knowledge. Key findings The CLP visited 142 patients with a mean time of 4.2 days following hospital discharge (range = 1,14 days). Consultations lasted 15,105 min (mean, 49 min; SD, ± 21 min). The CLPs retrospectively coded 766 activities and interventions that occurred during home visits, subsequently categorised into three groups: counselling and education, therapeutic interventions and other interventions. No statistical difference was detected in the number of medications patients reported taking at follow-up: the mean value was 7.72 (SD, ± 3.27) for intervention patients and 7.55 (SD, ± 3.27) for standard-care patients (P = 0.662). At follow-up self-perceived medication understanding was found to have improved in intervention patients (P < 0.001) and significant improvements from baseline in medication adherence were found in both standard-care (P < 0.022) and intervention (P < 0.005) groups; however, adherence had improved more in intervention patients. Conclusion The community liaison pharmacy service provided critical and useful interventions and support to patients, minimising the risk of medication misadventure when patients were discharged from hospital to home. [source]


    Impoverished Children With Asthma: A Pilot Study of Urban Healthcare Access

    JOURNAL FOR SPECIALISTS IN PEDIATRIC NURSING, Issue 2 2004
    Andrea Wallace ND
    ISSUES AND PURPOSE Using Andersen's Behavioral Model of Health Care Use, this pilot study was conducted to better understand the experiences of children with asthma as they access an urban healthcare system. DESIGN AND METHODS This descriptive study used a convenience sample of 34 families of pediatric asthma patients who participated in semistructured interviews and closed medical record review. RESULTS Only one patient reported having a written exacerbation management plan. Beliefs regarding medication addiction and side effects were frequently reported as barriers to medication adherence, and children seeking asthma care in primary care settings saw many care providers. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Exploring how expanded nursing roles can help address both family and system factors serving as barriers to health care ought to be a key priority for nursing. [source]


    Medication communication: a concept analysis

    JOURNAL OF ADVANCED NURSING, Issue 4 2010
    Elizabeth Manias
    manias e. (2010) Medication communication: a concept analysis. Journal of Advanced Nursing66(4), 933,943. Abstract Title.,Medication communication: a concept analysis. Aim., This paper is a report of a concept analysis of medication communication with a particular focus on how it applies to nursing. Background., Medication communication is a vital component of patient safety, quality of care, and patient and family engagement. Nevertheless, this concept has been consistently taken-for-granted without adequate analysis, definition or clarification in the quality and patient safety literature. Data sources., A literature search was undertaken using bibliographic databases, internet search engines, and hand searches. Literature published in English between January 1988 and June 2009 was reviewed. Walker and Avant's approach was used to guide the concept analysis. Discussion., Medication communication is a dynamic and complex process. Defining attributes consider who speaks, who is silent, what is said, what aspects of medication care are prioritized, the use of body language in conversations, and actual words used. Open communication occurs if there is cooperation among individuals in implementing plans of care. Antecedents involve environmental influences such as ward culture and geographical space, and sociocultural influences such as beliefs about the nature of interactions. Consequences involve patient and family engagement in communication, evidence of appropriate medication use, the frequency and type of medication-related adverse events, and the presence of medication adherence. Empirical referents typically do not reflect specific aspects of medication communication. Conclusion., This concept analysis can be used by nurses to guide them in understanding the complexities surrounding medication communication, with the ultimate goal of improving patient safety, quality of care, and facilitating patient and family engagement. [source]


    Patients with dysphagia: experiences of taking medication

    JOURNAL OF ADVANCED NURSING, Issue 1 2010
    Jennifer Kelly
    Abstract Title.,Patients with dysphagia: experiences of taking medication. Aim., This paper is a report of a study exploring the experiences of taking medication for older people with dysphagia. Background., Dysphagia is a common problem, especially amongst older people, and affects ingestion of food, fluids and medicines. With the number of elders in the population increasing, and currently accounting for one-third of prescribing volume in the United Kingdom, dysphagia is becoming a major problem in terms of medicine administration and therapy. Method., In 2007, we carried out interviews with 11 patients in one county of England who had different degrees of dysphagia. The interview transcriptions were analysed using Colaizzi's technique. Results., Six inter-related themes were identified from the data: (a) the wide spectrum and variability of dysphagia; (b) medication formulation; (c) information exchange between patients and healthcare professionals; (d) factors affecting medication adherence; (e) strategies used to improve swallowing; (f) the central function of swallowing as eating and drinking. Conclusion., It is vital to ensure that each patient has an individualized medication regimen, and for patients with dysphagia the formulation of the medicine is as important as the active ingredients. [source]


    Subjective side effects of antipsychotics and medication adherence in people with schizophrenia

    JOURNAL OF ADVANCED NURSING, Issue 3 2009
    Terence V. McCann
    Abstract Title., Subjective side effects of antipsychotics and medication adherence in people with schizophrenia. Aim., This paper is a report of a study conducted to describe the prevalence of antipsychotic medication side effects in individuals with schizophrenia, and to assess if a relationship existed between side effects and medication-taking. Background., Non-adherence to antipsychotics is common in people with schizophrenia. There is a direct relationship between non-adherence and relapse, but it is unclear if an association exists between side effects and non-adherence. Method., The Liverpool University Neuroleptic Side-effect Rating Scale was used with a convenience sample of 81 mental health service users with schizophrenia. Participants were recruited from one urban and one rural area in Australia in 2004. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science and nonparametric statistical methods based on the nature of data. Findings., Around 20% of participants had missed taking their medication at least once in the week before data collection. About half experienced one or more side effects, but the level of accumulated side effects was not associated with medication omission. Older participants were more likely to experience anticholinergic and allergic side effects than their younger counterparts. Younger women were more likely to experience hormone-related side effects than older women. Overall, medication omission was not statistically significantly correlated with any of the seven Liverpool University Neuroleptic Side-effect Rating Scale subscales. Conclusion., Greater attention needs to be paid to age- and gender-specific side effects and to monitoring side effects in people prescribed atypical medication antipsychotics. Service users, case managers and prescribers may need additional training to assist them to identify side effects and to take steps to ameliorate or at least minimize their effects. [source]


    Barriers to Optimal Hypertension Control

    JOURNAL OF CLINICAL HYPERTENSION, Issue 8 2008
    Gbenga Ogedegbe MD
    There is an obvious gap in the translation of clinical trial evidence into practice with regards to optimal hypertension control. The three major categories of barriers to BP control are patient-related, physician-related, and medical environment/health care system factors. Patient-related barriers include poor medication adherence, beliefs about hypertension and its treatment, depression, health literacy, comorbidity, and patient motivation. The most pertinent is medication adherence, given its centrality to the other factors. The most salient physician-related barrier is clinical inertia,defined, as the failure of health care providers to initiate or intensify drug therapy in a patient with uncontrolled BP. The major reasons for clinical inertia are: 1) overestimation of the amount of care that physicians provide; 2) lack of training on how to attain target BP levels; and 3) clinicians' use of soft reasons to avoid treatment intensification by adopting a "wait until next visit" approach in response to patients' excuses. [source]


    The self-efficacy model of medication adherence in chronic mental illness

    JOURNAL OF CLINICAL NURSING, Issue 11c 2008
    Terence V McCann BA
    Aim., In this position paper, the self-efficacy model of medication adherence in chronic mental illness is presented, and its application to antipsychotic medication adherence is considered. Background., Poor adherence to antipsychotic medications is common in chronic mental illness. Major implications of this are relapse and re-hospitalisation. Several conceptual frameworks have been developed about adherence and, in some instances, have been incorporated in medication taking studies, but have resulted in inconsistent outcomes. Method., This paper draws on a review of literature from databases to inform the development of the self-efficacy model of medication adherence. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed from primary and secondary research questions. Results., The model places the person with chronic mental illness as an active participant central to the process of medication taking. It has three components: core factors, contextual influences and a continuum. The factors comprise a central factor, self-efficacy and four interrelated supporting influences: perceived medication efficacy; access to, and relationships with, health professionals; significant other support and supported living circumstances. The factors are affected by three broad contextual influences , personal issues, medication side-effects and complexity, and social stigma , which affect the way individuals take their medications. A continuum exists between adherence and non-adherence. Conclusion., The model positions service users at the heart of adherence by giving prominence to self-efficacy, medication efficacy and to immediate social, psychological and environmental supports. Further work is needed to validate, refine and extend the model. Relevance to clinical practice., For practitioners involved in prescribing and medication management in people with chronic mental illness, the model provides a theoretical framework to strengthen adherence. It highlights the need to consider broader influences on medication taking. Moreover, it places the person with chronic mental illness as an active participant at the centre of strategies to enhance adherence. [source]


    A nurse-led cardiac rehabilitation programme improves health behaviours and cardiac physiological risk parameters: evidence from Chengdu, China

    JOURNAL OF CLINICAL NURSING, Issue 10 2007
    Xiaolian Jiang MSc
    Aim., The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a cardiac rehabilitation programme on health behaviours and physiological risk parameters in patients with coronary heart disease in Chengdu, China. Background., Epidemiological studies indicate a dose-, level- and duration-dependent relationship exists between cardiac behavioural and physiological risks and coronary heart disease incidence as well as subsequent cardiac morbidity and mortality. Cardiac risk factor modification has become the very primary goal of modern cardiac rehabilitation programmes. Design methods., A randomized controlled trial was conducted. Coronary heart disease patients (n = 167) who met the sampling criteria in two tertiary medical centres in Chengdu, south-west China, were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (the cardiac rehabilitation programme) or control group (the routine care). The change of health behaviours (walking performance, step II diet adherence, medication adherence, smoking cessation) and physiological risk parameters (serum lipids, blood pressure, body weight) were assessed to evaluate the programme effect. Results., Patients in the intervention group demonstrated a significantly better performance in walking, step II diet adherence, medication adherence; a significantly greater reduction in serum lipids including triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein; and significantly better control of systolic and diastolic blood pressure at three months. The majority of these positive impacts were maintained at six months. The effect of the programme on smoking cessation, body weight, serum high-density lipoprotein, was not confirmed. Conclusions., A cardiac rehabilitation programme led by a nurse can significantly improve the health behaviours and cardiac physiological risk parameters in coronary heart disease patients. Nurses can fill significant treatment gaps in the risk factor management of patients with coronary heart disease. Relevance to clinical practice., This study raises attention regarding the important roles nurses can play in cardiac rehabilitation and the unique way for nurses to meet the rehabilitative care needs of coronary heart disease patients. Furthermore, the hospital,home bridging nature of the programme also created a model for interfacing the acute care and community rehabilitative care. [source]


    An examination of the intentional and unintentional aspects of medication non-adherence in patients diagnosed with hypertension

    JOURNAL OF CLINICAL NURSING, Issue 4 2007
    Elaine Lehane MSc
    Aims., The primary aim of this study was to describe the unintentional and intentional aspects of non-adherence in patients diagnosed with hypertension. A secondary aim was to examine the relationships between medication adherence and purposeful actions (intentional non-adherence), patterned behaviours (unintentional non-adherence) and demographic questionnaire variables. Background., Non-adherence to medications continues to be a significant health-care issue, the extent and consequences of which have been well documented. Despite considerable research over the past five decades, little progress has been made in solving this healthcare problem. Recent literature indicates that this lack of progress can be attributed to the fact that past research has concentrated solely upon either the unintentional or the intentional aspects of non-adherence, instead of addressing both facets simultaneously. Methods., A quantitative, descriptive, correlation research design was employed using Johnson's (2002) Medication Adherence Model as a theoretical framework. A convenience sample of 73 participants with hypertension, attending the outpatients' clinics of two university hospitals was recruited. Data were collected by means of a researcher administered questionnaire and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Results., High levels of medication adherence with a mean adherence score of 4·75 (maximum 5) were reported. Low and medium levels of purposeful actions and medium and high levels of patterned behaviours towards medication taking were found. Correlational analyses did not demonstrate statistically significant associations. Conclusions., Both the intentional and unintentional dimensions of medication-taking are simultaneously considered by patients to varying levels when adhering to therapeutic regimens. This is an important research area for nurses as it facilitates an increased understanding of non-adherence and, in so doing, aids the uncovering of more effective interventions aimed at sustaining lifelong pharmacotherapy. Relevance to clinical practice., By acknowledging a broader approach to patient medication-taking, nurses will be able more effectively to assess and intervene in non-adherent behaviours and actions. [source]


    A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study of Naltrexone in Outpatients With Bipolar Disorder and Alcohol Dependence

    ALCOHOLISM, Issue 11 2009
    E. Sherwood Brown
    Background:, Alcohol dependence is extremely common in patients with bipolar disorder and is associated with unfavorable outcomes including treatment nonadherence, violence, increased hospitalization, and decreased quality of life. While naltrexone is a standard treatment for alcohol dependence, no controlled trials have examined its use in patients with co-morbid bipolar disorder and alcohol dependence. In this pilot study, the efficacy of naltrexone in reducing alcohol use and on mood symptoms was assessed in bipolar disorder and alcohol dependence. Methods:, Fifty adult outpatients with bipolar I or II disorders and current alcohol dependence with active alcohol use were randomized to 12 weeks of naltrexone (50 mg/d) add-on therapy or placebo. Both groups received manual-driven cognitive behavioral therapy designed for patients with bipolar disorder and substance-use disorders. Drinking days and heavy drinking days, alcohol craving, liver enzymes, and manic and depressed mood symptoms were assessed. Results:, The 2 groups were similar in baseline and demographic characteristics. Naltrexone showed trends (p < 0.10) toward a greater decrease in drinking days (binary outcome), alcohol craving, and some liver enzyme levels than placebo. Side effects were similar in the 2 groups. Response to naltrexone was significantly related to medication adherence. Conclusions:, Results suggest the potential value and acceptable tolerability of naltrexone for alcohol dependence in bipolar disorder patients. A larger trial is needed to establish efficacy. [source]


    Should we be ,pushing meds'?

    JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRIC & MENTAL HEALTH NURSING, Issue 5 2008
    The implications of pharmacogenomics
    Medication continues to be the most widely prescribed treatment in the NHS for mental health problems. It has been known for many years that individuals differ in the way they respond to a given pharmaceutical therapy, and one reason for this lies in the genetic variation between individuals. This paper recognizes the impact that pharmacogenomics and pharmacogenetics are having in the field of mental health. Variants in genes that code for the drug metabolizing enzymes in the liver have been found to influence the way in which these enzymes handle psychotropic medication. Individuals can be classified as poor, moderate or extensive metabolizers when standard regimes are used, and this can lead to huge differences in therapeutic effect and toxicity. There are now genotyping tests available which provide information on the individual's ability to metabolize psychotropic medication. One author provides an account of the effects of medication on her son's physical and psychological well-being. Genotyping provided evidence for his poor metabolism of psychotropic medication, and his life is now changing as he is being very gradually weaned off this medication. This emerging field of work has implications for the way in which practitioners consider medication adherence. [source]


    A Placebo-Controlled Randomized Clinical Trial of Naltrexone in the Context of Different Levels of Psychosocial Intervention

    ALCOHOLISM, Issue 7 2008
    David W. Oslin
    Background:, Naltrexone is approved for the treatment of alcohol dependence when used in conjunction with a psychosocial intervention. This study was undertaken to examine the impact of 3 types of psychosocial treatment combined with either naltrexone or placebo treatment on alcohol dependency over 24 weeks of treatment: (1) Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) + medication clinic, (2) BRENDA (an intervention promoting pharmacotherapy) + medication clinic, and (3) a medication clinic model with limited therapeutic content. Methods:, Two hundred and forty alcohol-dependent subjects were enrolled in a 24-week double-blind placebo-controlled study of naltrexone (100 mg/d). Subjects were also randomly assigned to 1 of 3 psychosocial interventions. All patients were assessed for alcohol use, medication adherence, and adverse events at regularly scheduled research visits. Results:, There was a modest main treatment effect for the psychosocial condition favoring those subjects randomized to CBT. Intent-to-treat analyses suggested that there was no overall efficacy of naltrexone and no medication by psychosocial intervention interaction. There was a relatively low level of medication adherence (50% adhered) across conditions, and this was associated with poor outcome. Conclusions:, Results from this 24-week treatment study demonstrate the importance of the psychosocial component in the treatment of alcohol dependence. Moreover, results demonstrate a substantial association between medication adherence and treatment outcomes. The findings suggest that further research is needed to determine the appropriate use of pharmacotherapy in maximizing treatment response. [source]


    Adherence to Oral Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes: Opportunities for Enhancing Glycemic Control

    JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF NURSE PRACTITIONERS, Issue 1 2004
    CDEArticle first published online: 24 MAY 200, David Bartels PharmD
    Purpose Although diet and exercise are important parts of type 2 diabetes treatment, most patients require pharmacological intervention with multiple agents to maintain adequate glycemic control. This article addresses the numerous patient-related, disease-related, and demographic variables affecting medication adherence in this patient population. Data Sources Extensive review of scientific literature, clinical practice guidelines, and Internet sources. Conclusions Studies have demonstrated that treatments including multiple medications or frequent dosing had a negative impact on adherence. Practitioners have used several approaches in an effort to improve adherence to oral antidiabetic medical therapy, including increased communication between health care providers and patients, implementation of multidisciplinary programs, and use of treatment regimens with easier dosing (i.e., reduced number of drugs or doses taken per day). Implications for Practice Options for type 2 diabetes treatments that combine effective medications into a simpler oral-dosage form may motivate and improve patient adherence. Ultimately, simplifying dosing may lead to better glycemic control, thereby reducing the risks associated with long-term consequences of the disease. [source]


    An investigation of medication adherence to 5-aminosalicylic acid therapy in patients with ulcerative colitis, using self-report and urinary drug excretion measurements

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 11-12 2009
    T. MOSHKOVSKA
    Summary Background, Non-adherence to 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) medication can limit the established benefits of this therapy in ulcerative colitis (UC). Aim, To determine rates and predictors of non-adherence to 5-ASA therapy in UC patients. Methods, Medication adherence was assessed using self-report data and urinary drug excretion measurements. Participants completed a study-specific questionnaire and two validated questionnaires: Beliefs about Medicine Questionnaire (BMQ)-Specific and Satisfaction with Information about Medicines Scale. Results, A total of 169 participants provided self-report adherence data; 151 also provided urine samples. Adherence rates were 111/151 (68%) according to self-report and 90/151 (60%) according to urine analysis, but the two measures were not correlated (,2 = 0.12, P = 0.725). Logistic regression identified a significant association between self-reported non-adherence and younger age [odds ratio (OR) for increased age 0.954, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.932,0.976] and also doubts about personal need for medication (OR for BMQ , Specific Necessity scores 0.578, 95% CI 0.366,0.913). For non-adherence based on urine analysis, only South Asian ethnicity was independently associated with non-adherence (OR 2.940, 95% CI 1.303,6.638). Conclusions, Our observations confirm the difficulty of accurately assessing medication adherence. Nonmodifiable (younger age, South Asian ethnicity) and potentially modifiable (medication beliefs) predictors of non-adherence were identified. [source]


    Treatment of ulcerative colitis from the patient's perspective: a survey of preferences and satisfaction with therapy

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 10 2009
    J. R. GRAY
    Summary Background, Data available regarding patient perspectives on ulcerative colitis (UC) and their preferences and satisfaction with therapy are limited. Aims, To examine the preferences of UC patients to understand better what they look for in a therapy when managing their disease, as this may influence overall medication adherence. Methods, The study surveyed 100 Canadian UC patients on topics including educational resources used to learn about the disease, medication attributes that are most valued and preferred by the patient and satisfaction with current therapy. Results, Overall, efficacy- and safety-related medication attributes were rated by patients to be more important than those related to dosing regimen (e.g. dosing frequency, number of pills), cost and formulary coverage. In pair-wise comparisons of specific medication attributes, UC patients rated speed of symptom relief and few side effects as the most important factors when considering a UC medication (preferred on average 84% and 74% of the time respectively). Conclusion, This study provides insight into UC patient preferences and satisfaction with therapy that may be important when counselling on treatment options, and generates relevant discussions on adherence. Larger studies may be warranted to examine further how these findings can be extrapolated to broader UC populations. [source]


    Review article: medication non-adherence in ulcerative colitis , strategies to improve adherence with mesalazine and other maintenance therapies

    ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 12 2008
    A. B. HAWTHORNE
    Summary Background, Significant number of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) fail to comply with treatment. Aims, To review issues surrounding medication non-adherence in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including the clinical and health service implications in the UK, and discuss strategies for optimizing medication adherence. Methods, Articles cited were identified via a PubMed search, utilizing the words IBD, adherence, compliance, medication and UC. Results, Medication non-adherence is multifactorial involving factors other than dosing frequency. Male gender (OR: 2.06), new patient status (OR: 2.14), work and travel pressures (OR: 4.9) and shorter disease duration (OR: 2.1), among others are proven predictors of non-adherence in UC. These indicators can identify ,at-risk' patients and allow an individually tailored treatment approach to be introduced that optimizes medication adherence. A collaborative relationship between physician and patient is important; several strategies for improving adherence have been proven effective including open dialogue that takes into consideration the patient's health beliefs and concerns, providing educational (e.g. verbal/written information, self-management programmes) and behavioural interventions (e.g. calendar blister packs, cues/reminders). Conclusions, Educational and behavioural interventions tailored to individual patients can optimize medication adherence. Additional studies combining educational and behavioural interventions may provide further strategies for improving medication adherence rates in UC. [source]


    Prevalence and cost of medication nonadherence in Parkinson's disease: Evidence from administrative claims data,

    MOVEMENT DISORDERS, Issue 4 2010
    Keith L. Davis MA
    Abstract We estimated the prevalence of medication nonadherence in Parkinson's disease (PD) and the association between treatment nonadherence and healthcare costs. Insurance claims from over 30 US health plans were analyzed. Inclusion criteria were as follows: PD diagnosis, ,1 PD-related prescription between 1/1/1997 and 12/31/2004, continuous health plan enrollment for ,6 months before and ,12 months after first PD prescription. Adherence, all-cause healthcare utilization, and all-cause costs were evaluated over 12 months post-treatment initiation. Adherence was measured using the medication possession ratio (MPR), with MPR < 0.8 defining nonadherence. Among patients identified for inclusion (N = 3,119), 58% were male and mean age was 69 years. Mean MPR was 0.58 and 61% of patients were nonadherent. Unadjusted mean medical costs were significantly higher (P < 0.01) among nonadherers ($15,826) compared with adherers ($9,228), although nonadherers had lower prescription drug costs ($2,684 vs. $3,854; P < 0.05). After controlling for confounders in multivariable analyses, a large positive relationship between nonadherence and both medical and total healthcare costs remained (+$3,451, P < 0.0001 and +$2,383, P = 0.0053, respectively). Medication adherence in PD is suboptimal and nonadherence may be associated with increased healthcare costs despite offsets from reduced drug intake. Efforts to promote medication adherence in PD may lead to cost savings for managed care systems. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society [source]


    The Danish version of the Medication Adherence Report Scale: Preliminary Validation in Cancer Pain Patients

    PAIN PRACTICE, Issue 1 2009
    Ramune Jacobsen MS
    Abstract Objective: To examine the psychometric properties of the Danish version of the Medication Adherence Report Scale (DMARS-4) adapted to measure adherence to analgesic regimen among cancer patients. Methods: The validated English version of the Medication Adherence Report Scale was translated into Danish following the repeated back-translation procedure. Cancer patients for the study were recruited from specialized pain management facilities. Thirty-three patients responded to the DMARS-4, the Danish Barriers Questionnaire II, The Danish version of Patient Perceived Involvement in Care Scale measuring the quality of patient-physician pain communication, and the Danish Brief Pain Inventory pain severity scale. Results: A factor analysis of the DMARS-4 resulted in one factor. Mean (SD) score on the cumulative scale ranging from 4 to 20, with higher scores indicating better medication adherence, was 17.8 (0.42). The DMARS-4 scores were related to the measures of patients' concerns about pain management and patients' pain communication. The internal consistency of the DMARS-4 was 0.70. Conclusions: The DMARS-4 seems to be a valid and reliable measure of self-reported adherence to analgesic regimen in the context of cancer pain. [source]