Patient adherence to prescribed pharmacological treatment at a specialized pediatric institute Adherencia al tratamiento farmacológico recetado en pacientes de un instituto especializado pediátrico

Abstract

Adherence to pharmacological treatment is essential for controlling diseases, preventing complications, and promoting healthy development in childhood, ensuring long-term health and well-being. This study aimed to analyze factors associated with treatment adherence in pediatric patients attending an outpatient clinic at a specialized institute. An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted, surveying 385 parents or guardians using a 13-item questionnaire and the Morisky-Green-Levine test. The findings revealed that treatment adherence was 14.4 % among those with a high school education, 18.4 % among housewives, and 14.1 % among those with incomes below the minimum wage. Although 78.4 % of respondents reported no adverse reactions, only 17.2 % demonstrated treatment adherence. Adherence also varied by gender and age: 16.4 % in women, 19.1 % in the 36–45 age group, 12.8 % in cohabiting couples, and 17.8 % in family households. The study highlights low adherence, particularly among parents or guardians with high school education, housewives, and those managing treatments that last more than 15 days. Female caregivers aged 26 to 45 and cohabiting couples were particularly associated with lower medication adherence. Interventions such as educational programs, mobile reminders, and emotional support are recommended to enhance adherence rates.