Patient Adherence for Oral Combination Therapies in Diabetes Management: A Scoping Review.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Diabetes imposes a global healthcare burden, with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) escalating due to demographic shifts and lifestyle changes. Combination therapies offer promise in managing T2DM, yet patient adherence remains a challenge. This scoping review aims to explore patient adherence to combination therapies in T2DM management.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This scoping review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. Electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched until July 10, 2024. Studies focused on patients with T2DM prescribed oral combination therapies were included. Data extraction and synthesis were conducted to identify adherence patterns, influencers, and strategies.

RESULTS

The review identified nine eligible studies spanning from 2004 to 2021, primarily retrospective cohort and cross-sectional designs. Adherence assessment methods varied, with medication possession ratio being the most common. Both dual (loose-dose) and fixed-dose combination therapies were explored. Adherence rates varied across studies and therapies, influenced by factors such as glycemic control, weight management, economic considerations, complexity of regimens, and demographic factors. Bibliometric analysis revealed diverse geographic origins of the included studies and varied adherence assessment methods. Dual therapy regimens demonstrated adherence rates ranging from 49% to 80.8%, while FDC therapies showed adherence rates ranging from 60.3% to 98.9%. Factors influencing adherence included glycemic control, weight management, economic considerations, complexity of regimens, and demographic factors.

CONCLUSION

Patient adherence to oral combination therapies in diabetes management is complex, affected by clinical, economic, and psychosocial factors. Addressing these issues is crucial for enhancing treatment outcomes and alleviating the burden of diabetes. A patient-centered approach and innovative strategies can empower patients to adhere to medication regimens, improving health outcomes and quality of life.