PSYCHOTROPICS AND ADHERENCE: ACHIEVING THERAPEUTIC COMPLIANCE

Imane Zhim*, El Mehdi Belhous, Meriem Bel Houari Jamal Lamsaouri and Yasmina Tadlaoui

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Therapeutic adherence, defined as the degree of patient compliance with their medication regimen, is a crucial element in the management of psychiatric disorders in outpatient settings. With significant rates of non-adherence, therapeutic adherence remains a major challenge. Our study examines the factors influencing therapeutic adherence to psychotropic medications in an outpatient setting, highlighting interventions and clinical strategies contributing to improving this adherence. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive, analytical, cross-sectional study using an anonymous questionnaire to assess adherence to psychotropic medication treatment among patients presenting at a pharmacy counter. Results: Out of 105 questionnaires distributed, 65 complete responses were obtained, resulting in a response rate of 60.95%. The mean age of participants was 39 years, with a standard deviation of 14 years; women represented 61.5% of our population (n=53). 81.5% of participants reported no addictions. Depression was the primary psychiatric disorder affecting our patients, accounting for 43.1% (n=37) of cases. Among those surveyed, 38% (n=25) were taking antipsychotics, and 61.5% reported medication non-adherence. Furthermore, 33.8% of participants (n=22) had adjusted their medication dosage without consulting their physician. Conclusion: It is evident that the challenges related to psychotropic adherence are multifactorial, but targeted interventions can significantly improve adherence rates and, consequently, treatment effectiveness.

Keywords: psychotropic medications, therapeutic adherence, pharmacy survey, therapeutic effectiveness.