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Antidepressant adherence and its predictors in immigrants with depression: A population-based study
Suhyun Jang1, Hyemin Cho1, Cinoo Kang2
1College of Pharmacy and Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gachon University, Incheon.
Medicine
|December 29, 2020
Summary
Immigrant antidepressant adherence in Korea is lower than native-born individuals. Factors like seeing a psychiatrist and having regular care may improve adherence for immigrants.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Immigrants in Korea face challenges with medication self-management and adherence.
- Low medication adherence rates are a significant concern for immigrant populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate antidepressant adherence patterns in immigrants residing in Korea.
- To identify predictors of antidepressant nonadherence among immigrant populations.
Main Methods:
- A matched cohort study utilized the National Health Insurance claims database.
- Identified 2,398 immigrants newly prescribed antidepressants, matched 1:1 with native-born Koreans.
- Measured adherence via medication possession ratio; logistic regression analyzed nonadherence predictors.
Main Results:
- Immigrants exhibited lower average medication possession ratio (27.1%) compared to native-born Koreans (30.9%).
- Immigrants had a significantly lower likelihood of adherence (odds ratio [OR] 0.76).
- Predictors for higher adherence in immigrants included older age, initial psychiatric consultation, appropriate care, and a usual source of care.
Conclusions:
- Antidepressant adherence is lower in immigrant populations in Korea compared to native-born individuals.
- Visiting a psychiatrist, receiving appropriate care, and having a usual source of care may enhance immigrant adherence.
- Further research into cultural and linguistic factors influencing immigrant adherence and healthcare utilization is recommended.
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