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Published on: February 28, 2012
Aspirin for cardioprotection and strategies to improve patient adherence
Danielle Duffy1, Erik Kelly, Amanda Trang
1Assistant Professor, Division of Cardiology, Jefferson Medical College. danielle.duffy@jefferson.edu.
Insights
Improving cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes requires better aspirin adherence. This review examines suboptimal adherence rates, patient and medication factors, and strategies to enhance medication compliance for better health.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a primary cause of death in North America.
- Aspirin therapy is a cornerstone in CVD prevention and treatment.
- Suboptimal adherence to aspirin regimens leads to poor health outcomes and increased healthcare costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on aspirin therapy adherence.
- To identify causes of nonadherence to aspirin.
- To outline strategies for improving adherence to aspirin and general medication.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on aspirin adherence.
- Analysis of patient-related factors contributing to nonadherence.
- Analysis of medication-related factors contributing to nonadherence.
Main Results:
- Aspirin adherence rates are suboptimal, ranging from 72% to 92%.
- Nonadherence is influenced by a combination of patient- and medication-related factors.
- Multidimensional strategies are needed to improve adherence.
Conclusions:
- Improving aspirin adherence is crucial for managing cardiovascular disease.
- Patient education and medication innovations addressing side effects are key strategies.
- A comprehensive approach is necessary to enhance medication adherence and patient outcomes.
Abstract:
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in North America. Aspirin therapy has proven clinical effectiveness in the prevention and treatment of CVD and is one of the most widely used drugs nationwide. However, despite the medication's popularity and utility, adherence to a proper aspirin regimen is suboptimal, resulting in adverse health outcomes and increased health care costs. Our review outlines current knowledge on aspirin therapy adherence, causes of nonadherence, and strategies available to increase adherence to aspirin and medications in general. We demonstrate that, indeed, aspirin adherence rates are suboptimal, ranging from 72% to 92%, and that a combination of patient- and medication-related factors contribute to nonadherence. A multidimensional approach involving patient education and medication innovations to reduce aspirin side effects is imperative to improving rates of aspirin therapy adherence.
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