Improving Medication Adherence in Coronary Heart Disease

The purpose of this review was to synthesize research findings from recently published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) targeting any phase of medication adherence, from initiation to discontinuation, among patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).

We identified successful strategies and promising practices for improving medication adherence among patients diagnosed with CHD. Consistent intervention strategies included the following: (1) facilitating patient-provider communication, (2) using mHealth technologies with emphasis on two-way communication, (3) providing patient education in tandem with lifestyle and behavioral counseling, and (4) providing psychosocial support. Regarding medication adherence phases, all studies examined implementation (i.e., taking medications as prescribed over time) and one also addressed treatment initiation (i.e., beginning a new medication). None identified addressed discontinuation. Studies varied by use of objective, self-report, and a combination of outcome measures with a greater number reporting only subjective measures of adherence. Key findings remained mixed in supporting specific intervention designs or delivery formats. This review addresses available data of promising practices for improving CHD medication adherence. Future studies are needed to examine intervention effectiveness, scalability, and durability of observed outcome effects.