Adherence to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A narrative review of the literature

Elizabeth Salt, Susan K. Frazier

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

91 Scopus citations

Abstract

AIM: This paper synthesizes findings from available research about medication adherence to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in the population with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RESULTS: This review of literature included 35 articles. Medication adherence to DMARDs ranged from 30% to 107%. Adherence rates of more than 100% indicated that patients took more than the prescribed amount of medication. There were no consistent risk factors for nonadherence to DMARD prescriptions identified, but some evidence was provided for self-efficacy, patient-healthcare provider relationships, social support, patient beliefs about medications, and age as factors affecting medication adherence. Support for educational interventions focused on medication adherence was equivocal. CONCLUSION: Further research is necessary to develop a comprehensive, theoretically based understanding of medication adherence in RA patients.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)260-275
Number of pages16
JournalOrthopaedic Nursing
Volume29
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2010

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
  • Advanced and Specialized Nursing

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