Patient's Perspective on Psychiatric Drugs: A Multicenter Survey-Based Study

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Understanding patient preferences is crucial for effective treatment in major psychiatric disorders.
• Previous research has not fully elucidated specific medication expectations and decision-making preferences in diverse psychiatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify patient expectations and preferences regarding medication and medical decision-making in individuals with major psychiatric disorders.
• To explore variations in these preferences across different psychiatric diagnostic groups.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to 707 patients with major psychiatric disorders across 15 Korean hospitals (2016-2018).
• The survey assessed demographic variables, medication expectations (efficacy, dosage), preferred decision-makers, and drug formulation.
• Statistical comparisons were made to identify preferences in the total population and differences among diagnostic groups (depressive, psychotic, bipolar disorders).

Main Results:

• High efficacy was the primary medication expectation (44.01%) for the total patient group.
• Patients identified themselves (37.39%) and their doctor (35.27%) as key decision-makers.
• Tablet/capsule form was the preferred drug type (36.16%).
• Significant differences emerged: depressive disorder patients desired lower dosages, while bipolar disorder patients showed a higher preference for physician-led decision-making.

Conclusions:

• Patient preferences for medication characteristics and decision-making roles vary significantly across major psychiatric disorders.
• Tailoring medication and shared decision-making strategies to individual patient needs and diagnostic profiles may enhance treatment adherence and outcomes.
• Personalized medicine approaches are recommended for improving patient compliance and therapeutic results in psychiatric care.