Study on Evaluation of Medication Adherence and Drug Related Problems In High Risk Elderly Population

Abstract

Medication adherence is a crucial component in the treatment of chronic diseases. In the elderly, clinicians are faced with a unique set of problems associated with adherence that they may not have been adequately trained for. The present study was designed to assess the socio-demographic profile, adherence and drug-related problems among elderly. Methods: An observational study involving 30 patients aged over 60 years using at least five prescription drugs and discharged from hospital. The occurrence of adherence and DRP were assessed by means of an identification tool specifically developed for use by community pharmacists, including a semi structured patient interview and a checklist of common DRP. Results: Out of 30 study subjects, it was observed that majority of the study subjects had drug related problems. High, moderate and low adherence to medication was found. Conclusion: It is evident that there is a great need on the part of health care providers to not only prescribe medications to the patients but also make a conscious effort to address the issue of non-adherence to the prescribed medications and other non-pharmacological measures. Keywords: Morisky, Drug compliance, elderly, habits, medications