Exploring medication adherence in Behçet's disease following COVID-19: a mixed-methods study

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Autoimmune Diseases
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Behçet's Disease is a rare autoimmune disorder requiring long-term medication.
• Understanding medication adherence is crucial for managing chronic conditions like Behçet's Disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify predictors of medication adherence in Behçet's Disease.
• To explore the decision-making process influencing medication adherence in patients with Behçet's Disease.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study combining quantitative (n=89) and qualitative (n=16) approaches.
• Quantitative analysis involved questionnaires on demographics, adherence, beliefs, perceptions, trust, and COVID-19 fear.
• Qualitative analysis utilized semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Belief in medicine necessity and concerns explained 16% of adherence variance.
• Key themes included illness experience, medication routines, facilitators (doctor recommendation, symptom relief), barriers (side effects, perceived ineffectiveness), and COVID-19 related issues.
• Patients demonstrated good understanding of their disease and trust in physicians.

Conclusions:

• Medication adherence in Behçet's Disease is generally good, with patients balancing concerns against perceived necessity.
• Addressing patient concerns about medicines, side effects, and perceived efficacy is vital.
• Providing updated, condition-specific advice can improve adherence and patient outcomes.