Promoting Medication Adherence in COPD Patients

Medication nonadherence is likely among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to a recent article in Specialty Pharmacy Times (August 8, 2017). When considering the issue, pharmacists should keep in mind the multidimensional nature of adherence, which can be influenced by patient-level, economic, and even health system factors.

“Positive interactions between providers and patients improve adherence,” wrote Jeannette Y. Wick, RPh, MBA, FASCP, “but acknowledging society's role and its impact on this connection is equally important.”

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A recent study in Respiratory Medicine identified the Morisky-Green test as the best way to gauge a patient’s attitude toward treatment and adherence (doi: 10.1016/j.rmed.2017.06.007). Furthermore, the 3-question Batalla test provides insight into a patient’s understanding of COPD and the need for medication adherence, the article reported.

Patient factors such as smoking, mental health disorders or other comorbidities, and a lack of confidence in the provider are all linked with poor adherence. On the other hand, spousal, caregiver, and even health care professional support can work to turn the situation around, the article explained.

Prescribers can encourage adherence by selecting medications with dosing schedules and routes of administration that work for patients. Meanwhile, community pharmacists can support medication adherence by monitoring and adjusting formularies to lower drug costs. Extra time and effective communication emphasizing the importance of medication adherence are also helpful, according to the article.

—Jolynn Tumolo