Antifibrotic Drug Adherence, the Patient, the Clinical Service and the Delivery Courier

Aims/Background Antifibrotic medication aims to slow disease progression for those with pulmonary fibrosis and is expensive with a known side effect profile. We have reviewed antifibrotic adherence in a real-world patient cohort. Methods We selected a random sample of 30 patients prescribed nintedanib for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, conducted telephone interviews collecting demographic data and evaluated adherence using the Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS-5) and the Adherence Starts with Knowledge (ASK-20) survey. Results 21 (70%) of patients were male and 9 (30%) were female, the median age was 73.8 years. 13 (43%) had no qualifications, 6 (20%) had GCSE/O levels or equivalent, 6 (20%) had AS/A levels or equivalent and 5 (17%) had a higher degree. The median MARS-5 score was 23.5 (range 16-25) suggesting an extremely high level of adherence among this patient group. Conclusion This study offers insights into medication adherence in a patient group that has not been extensively reviewed before. In this single centre study, there is good adherence to antifibrotic medication. This is likely related to the extensive clinical support provided, which is responsive, accessible, and individualised. Participants specifically mentioned this support when questioned.