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Association between attitude toward medication and neurocognitive function in schizophrenia
Sung-Wan Kim1, Il-Seon Shin, Jae-Min Kim
1Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, and Clinical Trial Center, Chonnam National University Hospital, Kwangju, Republic of Korea.
Clinical Neuropharmacology
|July 21, 2006
Summary
Patient attitude toward antipsychotic medication correlates with cognitive function in schizophrenia, specifically impacting verbal learning, executive function, and attention. This highlights the importance of medication perception for treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Medication adherence is crucial for schizophrenia treatment outcomes.
- Patient attitudes towards antipsychotic medication significantly influence adherence.
- Understanding this relationship is key to improving patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between attitudes toward antipsychotic medication and clinical status in schizophrenia patients.
- To specifically examine the link between medication attitude and neurocognitive function.
- To explore correlations with psychopathology and side effects.
Main Methods:
- Ninety-two schizophrenia patients were assessed using the Drug Attitude Inventory (DAI).
- Clinical characteristics and medication side effects were evaluated.
- Neurocognitive function was measured using the Mini Mental State Examination and a computerized test battery.
Main Results:
- Drug Attitude Inventory (DAI) scores did not correlate with psychopathology or extrapyramidal side effects.
- DAI scores significantly correlated with verbal learning, executive functioning (Wisconsin Card Sorting Test), and sustained attention (Continuous Performance Test).
- No significant correlations were found with Mini Mental State Examination, Digit Span Test, Finger Tapping Test, or Trail Making Test.
Conclusions:
- Patient attitude toward antipsychotic medication is significantly associated with specific domains of neurocognitive function.
- Verbal learning memory, executive functioning, and sustained attention are linked to medication attitudes in schizophrenia.
- These findings underscore the importance of addressing patient perceptions of medication in schizophrenia management.
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