Adherence to topical glaucoma medications in Ethiopian patients

Successful outcomes of medical treatment for glaucoma require proper and daily use of medication to prevent disease progression. The aim of this study was to determine the adherence to anti-glaucoma medications and factors associated with non-adherence among patients with ocular hypertension (OHT) or glaucoma at Jimma University Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia.

A hospital based cross sectional study was conducted on 200 consecutive patients from July to November 2010 at Jimma University Hospital in Southwest Ethiopia. Patients with OHT or glaucoma who were taking topical anti-glaucoma medications for more than six months were included. The study subjects were interviewed and their medical records were reviewed. Non-adherence to glaucoma therapy (NAGT) was defined as self-reported on missed medications or missed appointments, or a physician noting poor adherence. A P < 0.05 was statistically significant.

Overall, 135 (67.5%) patients were non adherent to glaucoma therapy. Non adherence was associated with older age (P = 0.04), advanced stage of glaucoma (P = 0.01), longer frequency of follow up (P = 0.00) and financial problem (P = 0.000). Sex (P = 0.53), level of education (P = 0.09), and marital status (P = 0.77) were not statistically significantly associated with non-adherence to anti-glaucoma drug treatment.

A relatively high proportion of patients were not adhering to the medications regimen for glaucoma. Older age, advanced glaucoma, lengthier frequency of follow-up and financial hardship were associated with non-adherence. Eye care providers should be aware of the problem of non-adherence to topical medications.