The effects of motivational interviewing on hypertension management: A systematic review and meta-analysis

This systematic review aimed to examine the effects of motivational interviewing-based interventions on hypertension management.

Six databases were searched from inception to 25 July, 2022 for randomized controlled trials involving adults diagnosed with hypertension and including motivational interviewing in the treatment interventions.

In total, 11 studies with 2121 participants were included. Compared with no or minimal additional intervention, motivational interviewing-based intervention showed greater reduction in systolic blood pressure (MD: -6.56, 95 % CI: -10.51, -2.62, P = 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (MD: -3.75, 95 % CI: -4.92, -2.58, P < 0.001). Compared with the lower intensity intervention, motivational interviewing-based intervention produced statistically significant effect on reducing systolic blood pressure (MD: -2.72, 95 % CI: -5.34, -0.10, P = 0.040); while there was no significant effect on reducing diastolic blood pressure (MD: -0.47, 95 % CI: -2.21, 1.28, P = 0.600). Four out of six studies demonstrated medication adherence significantly improved following motivational interviewing-based intervention. Two studies included self-efficacy and quality of life, and inconsistent findings were observed.

Motivational interviewing could be effective in improving blood pressure control among patients with hypertension. Future studies with more rigorous study designs should be conducted to confirm the effects of motivational interviewing on medication adherence and psychological well-being.

Motivational interviewing could be applied as a promising intervention strategy among patients with hypertension.