A study published in SAGE Journals carried out technology-based interventions with the aim of improving adherence to antihypertensive medications.
Due to poor adherence to antihypertensive medications, hypertensive patients may experience worse cardiovascular outcomes and more health complications. One solution to improve adherence to treatment is the application of emerging technologies and thus reduce morbidity and mortality due to poorly controlled hypertension.
The Article “Technology-based interventions to improve adherence to antihypertensive medications: an evidence-based review”, by Gary Chun-Yun Kang of Duke University, aimed to determine the efficacy of technology-based interventions to improve adherence to this type of medication. medicines.
The review was carried out through searches in PubMed and EMBASE databases, using keywords and specific terms. The studies found met the following criteria:
- Be randomized controlled trials
- Population of adults over 18 years of age taking antihypertensive medications
- Interventions performed or applied through a technological device or process
- Intervention designed to improve adherence
The results showed 12 studies that met the established criteria, of which five were successful in improving treatment adherence. In addition, two of them also improved blood pressure.
The technological interventions were: Electronic caps on medication containers with audiovisual reminders; educational information messaging services; notification of self-measured blood pressure to a computer system connected with a mobile phone; and monetary rewards after recording a video of the patient taking their medicine.
Most of these interventions showed encouraging results for their potential application in other populations, "especially if the interventions are targeted at a specific group of patients at higher risk of poor adherence," explains the author.
“Going forward, principal investigators should try to improve on the technology-based interventions found in these 12 studies, combine artificial intelligence and the use of phone apps, and continue to use them to help remember medication intake, advise and educate patients about hypertension and medication adherence, and create opportunities for provider and patient interaction,” the study concludes.
