Medication adherence in patients with psychiatric disorders in Tehran

Abstract

Objectives Non-adherence to drugs is an obstacle getting in the way of treatment in all diseases, especially chronic diseases. This study aimed to investigate the adherence level of patients with psychiatric disorders and recognize factors contributing to patients' adherence to treatment. The study was done in Psychiatric clinics in Tehran, the capital city of Iran.Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out using a self-report method through a questionnaire consisting of 26 questions. A total of 429 people, who had referred to three large clinics during June and July 2017, participated in this study. In addition to socio-demographic, health and diagnostic characteristics of the patients, the adherence to psychiatric medication and some factors contributing to their adherence were reported. Key findings In this study, the majority of the patients with schizophrenia, that is 211 (49.2%), had low adherence, 141 (32.9%) had moderate adherence, and only 77 (17.9%) had full adherence to their treatment. According to the results of the questionnaire on Morisky drug adherence scale, most of the patients considered forgetfulness as a major cause of their non-adherence. Conclusion Non-adherence to treatment is a major problem in patients, and the intervention of pharmacists as the most accessible of medical staff as well as physicians can help to persuade patients to adhere and continually take medicines. Some issues such as the side effects of medications, patients' lack of belief in the need for treatment and patients' uncertainty about the effectiveness of medicines were the most important factors contributing to their non-adherent behaviour.

Effectiveness Of Psychoeducation And Assertive Training (PEAT) Combined For Improving Medication Adherence In Patients With Schizophrenia

“…Health professionals can assist patients in complying with therapy and continuing to take their medicine, as nonadherence to treatment is a significant issue for patients. The main causes of patients' non-adherence behaviour include medication side effects, a lack of patient trust in the necessity of treatment, and patient ambiguity regarding the efficacy of drugs (Mehralian et al, 2019). A comprehensive approach to treatment can help individuals with schizophrenia stick to their drug regimen, according to a review of the literature.…”

“…According to Şahin Altun et al, (2021), the majority of schizophrenia patients' non-compliance with medication compliance can be influenced by their lack of social support. According to Mehralian et al, (2019), the primary reasons behind patients' non-adherence behaviour include adverse effects from medications, a lack of patient trust in the value of therapy, and patient uncertainty about the effectiveness of medications. Healthcare facilities have provided treatment for schizophrenia to patients from a variety of community backgrounds, families, and health services.…”