Factors Associated with Medication Non-Adherence among Patients on Hemodialysis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objectives: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the factors associated with medication non-adherence in terms of motivation and knowledge levels among hemodialysis-dependent patients.Patients and methods: Between March 2018 and April 2018, 134 Caucasian patients (78 males, 56 females; mean age 64.1±13.0years; range, 23 to 86 years) on hemodialysis at two dialysis centers were included in this cross-sectional study.The Modified Morisky Scale was administered to assess the patients' levels of motivation and knowledge about their medications. Results:The mean time on hemodialysis was 52.3±50.8months and the mean number of prescribed medications was 7.5±3.5.The ratio of patients with a low level of motivation and knowledge were 17.2% and 11.9%, respectively.Hypertension was found to be an independent risk factor for low level of motivation (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 5.260 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.122-24.665],p=0.035).Being employed was found to be an independent risk factor for low level of knowledge (aOR: 5.000 [95% CI: 0.404-6.219],p=0.01). Conclusion:Hypertension and being employed were found to be associated factors of non-adherence to medication therapy.Healthcare professionals should recognize the factors associated with non-adherence and perform effective interventions to prevent adverse outcomes of non-adherence among patients receiving hemodialysis.