Department of Pharmacy Practice, Srinivas College of Pharmacy, Manglore -574143.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic and progressive metabolic disorder that requires lifelong management. In order to achieve ideal glycemic control and avoid problems, medication adherence is crucial. However, several obstacles prevent type 2 diabetes patients who are administered with oral hypoglycemic medicines from adhering to their prescription regimens. The many different reasons that contribute to non-adherence in this group are explored and analyzed in-depth in this thorough review. Specific barriers to medication adherence in T2D, especially those that are potentially modifiable, need to be more clearly identified; strategies that target poor adherence should focus on reducing medication burden and addressing negative medication beliefs of patients. Solutions to these problems would require behavioral innovations as well as new methods and modes of drug delivery. Patients' limited understanding of their condition and medications can hinder their ability to make informed decisions about treatment. Furthermore, psychosocial factors, including mental health, stigma, and cultural beliefs, play a significant role in influencing medication adherence. Forgetfulness emerges as another critical barrier, often exacerbated by complex medication regimens. Access to healthcare services, including affordability and transportation challenges, can further limit patients' ability to obtain and adhere to their medications. Financial constraints and high medication costs are explored as formidable barriers. The review underscores the challenges posed by complex medication regimens, particularly in the context of polypharmacy. The intricacies of managing multiple medications, combined with concerns about interactions and side effects, can overwhelm patients. Complex regimens can lead to medication errors and contribute to non-adherence. Effective communication between healthcare providers and patients is identified as a pivotal factor in addressing these barriers. Ineffective communication can result in misunderstandings about treatment plans, contributing to non-adherence. A patient-centered and collaborative approach, tailored to individual needs and preferences, is essential for mitigating these barriers and achieving better glycemic control and long-term health outcomes in type 2 diabetic patients. Reducing these barriers not only benefits individual patients but also alleviates the burden of diabetes-related complications on healthcare systems and society as a whole.
K. Vineetha, B. Roma*, A. R. Shabaraya, Barriers To Medication Adherence In Type 2 Diabetic Patients On Oral Hypoglycemic Drugs: A Comprehensive Review, Int. J. in Pharm. Sci., 2023, Vol 1, Issue 11, 315-325. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10137924
10.5281/zenodo.10137924
