Adherence to antidepressants in psychiatry: a descriptive survey of outpatients in Johannesburg, Gauteng
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Authors
Taljaard, Lian
Issue Date
2016-02
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
Adherence , Non-adherence , Medication , Antidepressant(s) , Psychiatry , Psychiatric outpatient(s) , Johannesburg , Survey , Questionnaire , Morisky Medication , Adherence questionnaire
Alternative Title
Abstract
Pharmacological treatment is often required in the management of psychiatric disorders. Non-adherence to medication represents a significant health concern that prevents patients from fully benefitting from their treatment, and can lead to negative consequences for individuals, their families and the healthcare system. The adherence rates to antidepressant medications in a sample of psychiatric outpatients in the Johannesburg Metropolitan district of Gauteng Province were examined. A descriptive survey method was employed to systematically collect data from n=377 patients using a structured, non-clinical questionnaire and the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Questionnaire. Variables were analysed using descriptive and correlational statistical methods. Antidepressant adherence rates were reported as 47.7% (low), 31.3% (medium) and 21% (high). These high rates represent a concern in antidepressant treatment, and health care practitioners and health systems must take this into consideration when planning and developing interventions to improve adherence in this area. The current study found significant correlations between
antidepressant adherence rates and some medication-, health system- and moderating variables. Based on these findings, interventions that provide appropriate health-related education about treatment and improved social support systems may be effective in addressing antidepressant non-adherence in psychiatric outpatients in this region.
Description
Text in English
Citation
Taljaard, Lian (2016) Adherence to antidepressants in psychiatry: a descriptive survey of outpatients in Johannesburg, Gauteng, University of South Africa, Pretoria, <http://hdl.handle.net/10500/21169>