Prevalence and associated factors of single pill combination therapy among people with hypertension in a tertiary hospital.

Abstract

Introduction: Effective management of hypertension often requires pharmacological intervention, which can involve either single pill combination therapy (SPC) or multiple pill combination therapy (MPC). However, the choice between SPC and MPC can be influenced by patient demographics, clinical characteristics, comorbid conditions and physician preferences. This study was aimed at exploring the prevalence of SPC versus MPC usage among people with hypertension in a tertiary hospital and its associated factors.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study using a validated questionnaire was conducted among the hypertensive patients aged 18 years and on antihypertensive medication(s) for at least six months attending various speciality clinics at Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah, Selangor.

Results: The prevalence of patients using SPC was 27.9% (78/280). In univariate analysis, factors that were found to be associated with the use of SPC were presence of diabetes mellitus (p < 0.001), presence of chronic kidney disease (p = 0.033), physician's own preference for SPC (p = 0.027) and duration of hypertension (p = 0.003). The independent factors associated with SPC use was the presence of chronic kidney disease, physician's own preference for SPC and absence of diabetes mellitus (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The use of SPC is only 27.9%. The independent factors associated with SPC use was the presence of chronic kidney disease, physician's own preference for SPC and absence of diabetes mellitus. Hence, this study's findings can be applied by healthcare providers who should consider these factors when prescribing hypertension treatments. Tailoring the treatment plan to the individual patient's needs and circumstances can enhance adherence and efficacy.