Improving Adherence to Medication in Stroke Survivors (IAMSS): a randomised controlled trial: study protocol

Citation

O'Carroll R, Martin D, Johnston M & Sudlow C (2010) Improving Adherence to Medication in Stroke Survivors (IAMSS): a randomised controlled trial: study protocol. BMC Neurology, 10, Art. No.: 15. http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2377/10/15; https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2377-10-15

Abstract
Background: Adherence to therapies is a primary determinant of treatment success, yet the World Health Organisation estimate that only 50% of patients who suffer from chronic diseases adhere to treatment recommendations. In a previous project, we found that 30% of stroke patients reported sub-optimal medication adherence, and this was associated with younger age, greater cognitive impairment, lower perceptions of medication benefits and higher specific concerns about medication. We now wish to pilot a brief intervention aimed at (a) helping patients establish a better medication-taking routine, and (b) eliciting and modifying any erroneous beliefs regarding their medication and their stroke. Methods/Design: Thirty patients will be allocated to a brief intervention (2 sessions) and 30 to treatment as usual. The primary outcome will be adherence measured over 3 months using Medication Event Monitoring System (MEMS) pill containers which electronically record openings. Secondary outcomes will include self reported adherence and blood pressure. Discussion: This study shall also assess uptake/attrition, feasibility, ease of understanding and acceptability of this complex intervention. Trial Registration: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN38274953

Keywords
; Health Psychological aspects; Personality; Practice Management organization & administration

Journal
BMC Neurology: Volume 10

People

Professor Ronan O'Carroll

Professor, Psychology