Exploring variables associated with medication non-adherence in patients with COPD

Area of Science:

• Respiratory Medicine
• Clinical Pharmacy
• Health Psychology

Background:

• Medication adherence is a significant challenge for patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
• Poor adherence negatively impacts treatment efficacy and patient health outcomes in COPD management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key factors associated with self-reported medication non-adherence in COPD patients.
• To investigate the relationship between patient characteristics, disease factors, and adherence to COPD therapy.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 133 COPD patients at a respiratory outpatient clinic.
• Utilized validated questionnaires for COPD knowledge, medication adherence (Morisky scale), respiratory quality of life (St. George's), and mental health (anxiety/depression).
• Stepwise logistic regression analysis was employed to determine predictors of non-adherence.

Main Results:

• A majority of COPD patients (61.7%) exhibited medication non-adherence.
• Depression significantly increased the likelihood of non-adherence (OR 0.251).
• Comorbidities (OR 0.119), complex medication regimens (OR 0.524), and concerns about side effects (OR 0.515) were also strongly associated with non-adherence.

Conclusions:

• Depression, comorbidities, complex dosing schedules, and therapy side effects are significant barriers to COPD medication adherence.
• Clinical pharmacists play a vital role in enhancing adherence through patient support, regimen simplification, and managing side effect concerns.
• Interventions targeting these factors can improve adherence and health outcomes for COPD patients.