Medication Adherence in a Community Population with Uncontrolled Asthma

Abstract

It is well documented that the use of medications in asthma and allergic rhinitis is often suboptimal, and consequently, patients remain symptomatic. This study aimed to determine the extent and type of medication-related issues contributing to poor asthma control by profiling medication management in those most at risk—a population with clinically uncontrolled asthma. Participants (n = 363) were recruited from Australian community pharmacies, and a dispensed medication history report for the previous 12 months was collected to examine medication adherence and factors affecting adherence. Information was also collected regarding participant asthma control and asthma/allergic rhinitis (if applicable) management. The participants’ mean asthma control score was 2.49 (± 0.89 SD, IQR = 1.20) (score ≥ 1.5 indicative of poorly controlled asthma), and 72% were either non-adherent or yet to initiate preventer therapy. Almost half had been prescribed high doses of inhaled corticosteroid and 24% reported use of oral corticosteroids. Only 22% of participants with concomitant allergic rhinitis were using first line treatment. A logistic regression model highlighted that participant health care concession status and hospital admissions were associated with better adherence. Suboptimal medication management is evident in this at-risk population.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Patients with Allergic Rhinitis Towards Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy

“…Concurrently, efforts should focus on promoting regular physical activity and disseminating knowledge effectively to enhance patient outcomes, while also addressing negative attitudes through cognitive-behavioral approaches and involving patients in shared decision-making processes to empower their treatment choices. 24 , 25 Regular follow-up and monitoring mechanisms should be established to track patient progress, identify challenges, and provide necessary support and adjustments to treatment plans. 26 , 27 …”