Medical admissions due to noncompliance with drug therapy.

In 34 (2.9%) of 1184 medical admissions monitored at the Hadassah University Hospital in Jerusalem, noncompliance with drug therapy appeared to be the principal factor leading to hospitalization. The main diseases presented on admission were cardiovascular conditions and exacerbation of chronic pulmonary and inflammatory diseases. The reasons given for noncompliance were the occurrence of adverse reaction (39% of the cases), lack of symptoms (19%), too many drugs (16%), and forgetfulness (10%). The main drugs involved were diuretics, digoxin, and antibiotics. Nonprofessional employment, low level of education, as well as old age in males were identified as factors associated with hospitalization due to noncompliance. Poor knowledge of possible adverse reactions and results from noncompliance were evident in the entire patient population. Educational measures are required to increase patient participation in the therapeutic process.