Initial medication adherence in newly diagnosed glaucoma patients: three adherence measures
Joana Menino1, Pedro Camacho2,3,4, André Coelho2
1Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon 1990-096, Portugal.
International Journal of Ophthalmology
|April 20, 2023
Summary
Nearly 40% of new glaucoma patients show initial medication non-adherence, either by not starting or early discontinuing anti-glaucoma drugs. This highlights a critical need for improved patient adherence strategies in glaucoma management.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Pharmacoeconomics
Background:
- Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide.
- Effective management of glaucoma relies heavily on consistent adherence to prescribed anti-glaucoma medications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the initial medication adherence rates among newly diagnosed glaucoma patients prescribed anti-glaucoma drugs.
- To identify the extent of non-initiation and early discontinuation of glaucoma treatment.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective, observational study design.
- Inclusion of newly diagnosed glaucoma patients from Portuguese Primary Health Care units (2012-2013).
- Data collection via electronic prescribing and pharmacy claims records to determine treatment initiation and early discontinuation.
Main Results:
- 3548 new glaucoma patients were analyzed.
- 31.9% of patients did not initiate treatment, and 11.5% discontinued early.
- Overall initial medication non-adherence rate was 39.7%.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of glaucoma patients exhibit initial non-adherence to anti-glaucoma medications.
- There is a substantial opportunity to enhance glaucoma treatment outcomes through improved patient adherence.
- Implementation of targeted adherence strategies is crucial for effective glaucoma control.
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