Factors affecting medication beliefs among patients newly prescribed oral oncolytic agents. Issue 1 (3rd January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Marshall, Victoria K.; Given, Charles W.; Given, Barbara A.; Lehto, Rebecca H.; Sikorskii, Alla
• Is Part Of: Journal of psychosocial oncology. Volume 40:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 62
• Page End: 79
• Publication Date: 2022-01-03
• Subjects: cognitive effectiveness -- depressive symptoms -- medication beliefs -- oral oncolytic agents -- symptoms; Cancer -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 362.196994
• DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2020.1855497
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0734-7332

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Prescribing oral oncolytic agents (OAs) for advanced cancers is increasing. Aims: To explore changes in medication beliefs and the effects of symptom severity, cognitive effectiveness and depressive symptoms on medication beliefs over 12 weeks. Methods: Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial, testing an intervention to promote symptom management and adherence [N = 230]. Questionnaires evaluated medication beliefs, symptom severity, depressive symptoms, and cognitive effectiveness. Linear mixed effects models were used for analyses. Results: OA Necessity beliefs increased over time (mean difference 0.0112, SE = 0.055, p 0.04). Concern beliefs did not change and were lower for advanced cancers (–0.193, SE = 0.067, p < 0.01).Depressive symptoms were related to decreased Necessity beliefs (–0.012, SE = 0.005, p = 0.02), but not Concern beliefs. Medication beliefs were not associated with symptom severity or cognitive effectiveness. Conclusion: Patients with advanced cancer hold different medication beliefs compared to earlier staged cancers, lending insight into potential outcomes beyond adherence.