PHARMACIST INTERVENTION IN MEDICATION ADHERENCE IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE II DIABETES MELLITUS

Type II diabetes mellitus is a serious global health problem and is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. According to International Diabetic Federation, by 2030 there is 1 adult in 10 will have diabetes. To achieve long term glycemic control, multiple drugs including parenteral therapy with insulin and oral drugs are needed. Hyperglycemia, diabetes associated complications and co morbidities are the strong factors that favor therapeutic poly pharmacy and reduced patient adherence. Materials and methods: It was an experimental study with pre test and post test design conducted in the department of General Medicine, Govt Medical College, Kozhikode. Data were collected from OP sheets, laboratory reports and patient interview with medication adherence questionnaire. Adherence questionnaire prepared based on Morisky 8 item medication adherence questionnaire. Results: A total of 218 patients with type 2 diabetes and associated complications were enrolled into the study from January 2013 to May 2013 after signing the written consent form. Medication adherences have been improved after pharmacist intervention. Poor adherence has been reduced from 48.2% to 26.1%. Moderate adherence percentage rose from 32.1% to 39.1%. There is marked increase in good adherence, after intervention it raised from 19.7% to 34.9%. The RBS level has been reduced after the intervention from 202.00±82.56 to 170±52.93. There is marked decrease in the FBS level of the study subjects. It has been reduced from 155.45±64.04 to 139.19±44.06. PPBS value has been decreased from 189.71±77.89 to 158.56 ±59.42. Conclusion: Non adherence with therapeutic regimen is a problem for health care providers which will reduce treatment outcome and quality of life. Studies in India indicate that more than 50% of people with diabetes have poor glycemic control, uncontrolled hypertension, dyslipedemia and vascular complications. Pharmacists are in a unique position to play vital role in patient’s medication adherence, especially in providing patient education and facilitate safe, appropriate, and cost effective use of anti diabetic drugs