Predictors of Adherence to an Antidepressant Medication Regimen Among Patients Diagnosed with Depression in Taiwan |
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| Authors: | Mei-Yu Yeh Su-Ching Sung Beatrice Crofts Yorker Chi-Chen Sun Ya-Lin Kuo |
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| Affiliation: | 1. Department of Nursing, Chang Gung Institute of Technology, Taiwan;2. College of Health and Human Services, California State University, Los Angeles, California, USA;3. Department of Nursing, Cheng Hsin Rehabilitation Medical Center, Taiwan;4. Department of Nursing, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan |
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| Abstract: | This study explored the predictors of medication adherence among Taiwanese people with major depression and dysthymic disorder. Previous research indicates that depressed patients vary in compliance with their medication regimen. Poor compliance reduces the therapeutic effect of medication. Self-report questionnaires were used for this cross-sectional study conducted with 181 outpatients diagnosed with major depression or dysthymic disorder. About 50% of depressed patients reported good medication adherence. The predictors of adherence were patient income, treatment efficacy, and understanding the importance of continuing medication. Professionals should use collaborative communication and cultural values clarification with depressed patients and their families to improve the awareness of illness and to increase the likelihood of medication compliance. |
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