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Life Science Reports

DOI

https://doi.org /10.62812/FRUE4067

Abstract

Prescription adherence is a major public health challenge, as non-adherence to medication instructions can lead to poorer health outcomes and higher healthcare costs. Although prescription adherence is crucial for managing patient compliance and health outcomes, adherence rates differ greatly between medication types. The main objectives of this study were to determine prescription adherence rates across six medication types (antibiotic, cardiac, chronic health, pediatric, and psychiatric) and identify sources of variation. We searched PubMed and Web of Science databases for relevant published articles. Previous research data were selected related to prescription adherences and compliance rates were included in our analysis. Results from twenty-three previous studies were included: four to five studies per medication category to limit the influences of geographic location and difference in adherence measurement. The average prescription adherence rate for antibiotics, cardiac, chronic health, pediatrics, and psychiatric medications were 58.3%, 75.6%, 68.8%, 55.2%, and 29.2% respectively. The data found highlights the medications with the highest and lowest average adherence overall. Factors affecting adherence rates include regimen length, parental control, cognitive impairment, polypharmacy, and understanding instructions. Drug counseling has been shown to improve adherence. These findings provide a foundation for future research aimed at enhancing prescription adherence and improving patient health outcomes.

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