Introducing the importance and difficulties of a three-step approach to improve nonadherence to antihypertensive drugs: a case series. Issue 1 (January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Peeters, Laura E.J.; van der Net, Jeroen B.; Schoenmakers-Buis, Kathy; van der Meer, Irene M.; Massey, Emma K.; van Dijk, Liset; van Gelder, Teun; Koch, Birgit C.P.; Versmissen, Jorie
• Is Part Of: Journal of hypertension. Volume 40:Issue 1(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-01
• Subjects: adherence -- communication tool -- hypertension -- intervention -- therapeutic drug monitoring; Hypertension -- Periodicals; Hypertension -- Periodicals; 616.132005
• DOI: 10.1097/HJH.0000000000003001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1473-5598

Abstract

Abstract : N/A: Nonadherence to antihypertensive drugs is an important reason for not reaching blood pressure goals. A possible method to improve nonadherence involves three essential steps: identification of nonadherent patients (step 1), determination of underlying causes (step 2) and a personalized solution (step 3). We present three unique cases to show the importance and difficulties of this three-step approach. Patients participated in a randomized controlled trial to improve nonadherence to antihypertensive drugs (RHYME-RCT, Dutch Trial Register NL6736). Drug level measurements were used to identify nonadherence to antihypertensive drugs and communication on drug levels was supported by a tailored feedback tool in these patients. These cases showed that a three-step approach of identifying nonadherence and determination of the underlying cause, can lead to a personalized solution to improve therapy even when nonadherence was excluded. Open communication with patients remains an essential part when improving nonadherence.