Satisfaction and adherence to pharmacological treatment for glycemic control in adults

TL;DR

This study shows that adherence to diabetes medication is linked to better blood sugar control in adults with Type 2 Diabetes.

Contribution

The study empirically demonstrates that adherence, not treatment satisfaction, directly affects glycemic control in Type 2 Diabetes patients.

Findings

Adherence to pharmacological treatment predicted better glycemic control.

Adherent individuals had a 0.22 lower glycated hemoglobin level compared to non-adherent individuals.

The study found no significant association between treatment satisfaction and glycemic control.

Abstract

The management of Type 2 Diabetes should be based on a person-centered approach to ensure the appropriate selection of pharmacological treatment. Satisfaction with pharmacological treatment is a patient-reported assessment measure that evaluates the treatment process and related factors, which may enhance adherence and glycemic control.

To determine the strength of association between satisfaction with pharmacological treatment and adherence for glycemic control in adults with Type 2 Diabetes.

A cross-sectional predictive study with model testing was conducted. A total of 146 participants with Type 2 Diabetes were enrolled using snowball sampling. The Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (DTSQ), the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-4), and a sociodemographic and clinical data form were administered, and glycated hemoglobin level was measured. Associations were estimated using multiple linear regression.

Adherence to pharmacological treatment only predicted glucose control. The difference in glycated hemoglobin between adherent and non-adherent individuals was 0.22 lower in adherent individuals (β = -0.22, F = 2.95, p = 0.001).

The results differ from other studies that have reported subsequent changes in glycated hemoglobin associated with treatment satisfaction.

Adherence to pharmacological treatment influences glycemic control. It is essential for healthcare professionals to consider this evidence for decision- making and in the design, implementation, and/or reinforcement of educational interventions.