Medication therapy: adherence, knowledge and difficulties of elderly people from bipolar disorder

Abstract

This study aimed to verify the adherence, knowledge and the difficulties of elderly patients with Bipolar Affective Disorder (BAD) in relation to the prescribed pharmacological therapy for the control of this disorder. The study included 17 elderly patients with BAD treated at a Mental Health Center. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and scales were applied. The data were analyzed using a quali-quantitative approach. A low level of adherence to the pharmacological treatment and a deficit in knowledge in relation to the medication were identified, especially regarding the dose and frequency of administration. Among the difficulties inherent to the pharmacotherapy, the obligation of polypharmacotherapy, the desire to quit the pharmacological treatment, limitations in the self-administration of the medication, collateral effects, and doubts about the need for the medication were related. Investment is needed in educational activities and in the promotion of adherence that address the difficulties experienced by elderly people with BAD in the following of the pharmacotherapy in order to ensure safety in the medication therapy.