ASSESSMENT OF MEDICATION ADHERENCE IN PATIENTS WITH HYPERTENSION

Background: Hypertension is one of the most common chronic cardiovascular disorders and a
major risk factor for complications such as stroke, myocardial infarction, and heart failure.
Despite the availability of effective antihypertensive medications, poor medication adherence
remains a significant challenge in achieving optimal blood pressure control. Assessing
adherence patterns among hypertensive patients can help identify barriers and improve
therapeutic outcomes.
Aim: To assess the level of medication adherence among patients diagnosed with
hypertension and identify factors influencing adherence.
Objective:
To evaluate medication adherence among hypertensive patients using a validated adherence
assessment tool
To identify factors associated with poor adherence to antihypertensive therapy.
To assess the relationship between medication adherence and blood pressure control.
Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted among hypertensive patients
attending the outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital. Medication adherence was
assessed using a structured questionnaire and the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale
(MMAS-8). Demographic data, clinical characteristics, and treatment details were collected
from patient interviews and medical records.
Results: A total of 120 hypertensive patients were included in the study. Among them, 42%
showed high medication adherence, 33% moderate adherence, and 25% low adherence.
Factors such as poly pharmacy, lack of disease awareness, forgetfulness, and medication cost
were significantly associated with poor adherence. Patients with higher adherence
demonstrated better blood pressure control compared to those with low adherence.
Conclusion: The study revealed that a considerable proportion of hypertensive patients have
suboptimal medication adherence. Clinical pharmacist interventions, including patient
education and medication counseling, may significantly improve adherence and help achieve
better blood pressure control.
Keywords: Medication adherence; Hypertension, Antihypertensive therapy,MMAS-8,
Clinical pharmacy.