Barriers to Adherence to Pharmacotherapy among Patients with Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

There are multiple barriers in order to cause or improve adherence to medication among the patients with hypertension; and recognize the relevant obstacles is a significant stage in performing effective interventions. Accordingly, the current study seeks to examine personal psychological and environmental obstacles influencing adherence to pharmacotherapy in the patients with hypertension. In the current cross-sectional study, 390 patients with hypertension sponsored by health centers in Isfahan city ( Iran) were examined. The sampling in the current research was performed in several stages. The data collection method was demographic factor questionnaire, eight-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale ( MMAS), Beck Depression Inventory, and John Henry Active Coping Scale. The data relevant to the subjects was collected and analyzed in a self-reporting manner. According to results, 12 percent of patients had adherence to medication. The patients with low scores of active coping reported the greater level of non-adherence to pharmacotherapy( OR = 0.17 95 CI 0.06-0.65). Furthermore, the patients who had higher level of depression and interpersonal conflicts with family reported higher non-adherence to pharmacotherapy( respectively OR= 1.50 95 CI 1.05-3.46, OR= 1.99 95 CI 1.03-3.6). The results suggest that depression, interpersonal conflicts and also application of active coping strategies in the patients with hypertension can play an important part in their adherence to pharmacotherapy.