Predictors of Iranian Patients’ Medication Adherence After Coronary Angioplasty

Poor medication adherence (MA) is a significant concern in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) in low and middle-income countries. Thus, understanding the factors affecting this concern is the first step in designing effective interventions in such societies. In this regard, the purpose of this study was to investigate MA in a sample of Iranian patients after coronary angioplasty and to identify prediction factors based on the World Health Organization framework.

This descriptive-correlational research was conducted on 203 patients post carotid artery (CA) who were recruited from the Cardiology Clinics of Tabriz between November 2016 and February 2017. Data were collected based on socio-demographic characteristics and the Persian version of the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS), and the Charlson comorbidity index was used as well. Finally, the multiple linear regression method was applied to identify the significant predictors of MA.

The mean (standard deviation) MMAS score was 5.85 (±1.83). A multivariable model (adjusted R2=0.136) predicted adherence using experienced medication side effects (B=-1.094, a 95% confidence interval (CI)= -1.700– -0.489, P<0.001) and having a recall (B=0.658, 95% of CI=0.153-1.163, P=0.011) and hospitalized history due to current disease (B=-0.537, 95% of CI=-1.031–-0.043, P=0.033).

The results of this study provide a better conception of the role of patients’ experiences about medication side effects and the presence of a recall member in the family for MA after angioplasty. Patients’ problems and concerns related to the side effects of medications must be resolved to improve MA.