A recent analysis sheds light on the patterns of medication use and adherence among glaucoma patients in Italy’s Lombardy Region. The study highlights significant factors influencing therapy modifications and discontinuation over an eight-year period.
Medication Utilization and Patient Adherence
Researchers identified over ten thousand individuals aged 50 and above who were newly diagnosed with glaucoma in 2010. The cohort primarily consisted of older adults, with the average age being 70.2 years and a slight majority of female participants. Initial treatment regimens predominantly included beta-blocking agents, timolol combinations, and prostaglandin analogues.
Factors Leading to Therapy Changes
Only 41% of patients maintained adherence to their prescribed therapy, defined as taking medication on at least 80% of the scheduled days. Throughout the follow-up, a substantial 73.4% altered or ceased their initial treatment, with changes typically occurring after approximately 666 days. The likelihood of modifying therapy increased with age and the presence of chronic polypharmacy.
- Older patients are more prone to changing their glaucoma medications.
- Managing multiple chronic conditions complicates adherence to glaucoma therapy.
- Prostaglandin analogues and beta-blockers show better persistence and lower discontinuation rates.
The study utilized robust statistical methods, including survival analysis and Cox regression models, to determine the predictors of therapy modification. Findings indicate that older age and the use of multiple medications concurrently are significant barriers to sustained glaucoma treatment.
Discontinuation of therapy was even more prevalent, affecting 64.2% of patients with a median discontinuation time of 1156 days. Similar predictors of discontinuation were identified, reinforcing the challenges faced by elderly patients in maintaining consistent glaucoma management.
Prostaglandin analogues and beta-blocking agents emerged as more stable treatment options, associated with lower risks of both modifying and discontinuing therapy compared to other drug classes. This suggests these medications may offer better long-term adherence for patients.
Addressing the high rates of therapy changes and discontinuations requires targeted strategies, especially for older individuals and those managing multiple health conditions. Enhancing patient education, simplifying medication regimens, and providing additional support could improve adherence and treatment outcomes in glaucoma care.
Effective glaucoma management hinges on sustained medication adherence, particularly in a growing elderly population. By identifying and mitigating the factors that lead to therapy discontinuation, healthcare providers can better support patients in maintaining their treatment regimens, ultimately preserving vision and quality of life.
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