Using an Intervention Mapping Approach to Improve Adherence to Disease-Modifying Treatment in Multiple Sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychology
• Health Behavior Science

Background:

• High rates of nonadherence to disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) are observed in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, impacting treatment efficacy.
• Limited research exists on interventions specifically designed for MS patients to improve DMT adherence.
• This study focuses on developing a targeted intervention for nonadherent individuals with MS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an intervention aimed at improving adherence to DMTs in individuals with MS.
• To create a personalized intervention based on identified reasons for nonadherence.

Main Methods:

• Intervention development utilized the Intervention Mapping approach, literature reviews, and input from MS patients.
• Health behavior theories, specifically the perceptions and practicalities approach, informed the intervention content.
• An observational "needs assessment" (n=186) was conducted to gather empirical evidence from the target population.

Main Results:

• A personalized intervention was designed, delivered sequentially by neurologists and psychologists.
• Key intervention components include psychoeducation, coping strategies for adverse effects, modifying unhelpful beliefs, enhancing self-efficacy, and memory aids.
• Motivational interviewing was integrated into the intervention delivery.

Conclusions:

• Intervention Mapping effectively developed an intervention grounded in theory and empirical data.
• The intervention development process identified determinants of nonadherence in MS patients.
• Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of this intervention in improving MS DMT adherence.