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Taking antihypertensive medication--controlling or co-operating with patients?
K I Kjellgren1, J Ahlner, R Säljö
1Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden.
International Journal of Cardiology
|January 6, 1995
Summary
Low patient adherence to antihypertensive medication hinders hypertension control. This review highlights a significant knowledge gap in understanding clinical decision-making processes for prescribing and managing these vital drugs.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Behavioral Science
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Low compliance with antihypertensive drug regimens is a primary cause of uncontrolled hypertension.
- Existing research often focuses on patient-level factors, monitoring, and measurement of compliance patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize literature on low compliance with antihypertensive medication from various disciplines.
- To identify knowledge gaps concerning clinical decision-making in prescribing and managing antihypertensive treatments.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature assessment was conducted, drawing from diverse academic fields.
- The review focused on understanding patient behavior and identifying gaps in understanding clinical practice.
Main Results:
- While patient-focused compliance factors are studied, there's a significant lack of knowledge regarding clinical decision-making processes.
- The critical role of patient-physician communication and collaboration in adherence is acknowledged but poorly understood in practice.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the dynamics of clinical decision-making in antihypertensive prescribing and follow-up is crucial.
- Further research is needed to illuminate the patient-physician interactions vital for successful drug regimen adherence.