Toggle Main Menu Toggle Search

Open Access padlockePrints

Medication compliance aids: a qualitative study of users' views

Lookup NU author(s): Jan Lecouturier

Downloads

Full text for this publication is not currently held within this repository. Alternative links are provided below where available.


Abstract

Background Despite the rapid rise in the use of multicompartmental compliance aids (MCAs), little is known about the role they play in self-management of medication. Aim To explore the perceived benefits of MCAs for people using them to manage their own or a relative's medication. Design of study Qualitative study using in-depth interviews. Setting West Northumberland. Method Recruitment was via posters and leaflets in general practices and community pharmacies. In-depth interviews were conducted using a topic guide. Results Nineteen people were interviewed. Three overarching themes emerged in relation to medicine taking: disruption, organisation, and adherence, which impacted on control. The medication regime had caused disruption to their lives and this had led to the purchase of an MCA. The MCA enabled them to organise their medication, which they believed had improved the efficiency of medicine taking and saved time. Although the MCA did not prompt them to take their medication, they could see whether they had actually taken it or not, which alleviated their anxiety. To meet their individual needs and lifestyles, some had developed broader systems of medication management, incorporating the MCA. For a small cost - the initial outlay for the MCA and time spent loading it - they gained control over the management of their medication and their condition. Conclusion This group found the use of an MCA to be beneficial, but advice and support regarding how best to manage their medication and on the most appropriate design to suit their needs would be helpful.


Publication metadata

Author(s): Lecouturier J, Cunningham B, Campbell D, Copeland R

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: British Journal of General Practice

Year: 2011

Volume: 61

Issue: 583

Pages: 93-100

Print publication date: 01/02/2011

ISSN (print): 0960-1643

ISSN (electronic): 1478-5242

Publisher: Royal College of General Practitioners

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.3399/bjgp11X556191

DOI: 10.3399/bjgp11X556191


Altmetrics

Altmetrics provided by Altmetric


Funding

Funder referenceFunder name
SFB/2004/19Royal College of General Practitioners

Share