Medication Adherence Among Pediatric Post-Heart Transplant Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital

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BACKGROUND The present study assessed medication adherence to immunosuppressive therapy in pediatric patients following heart transplantation at a tertiary care center. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional interview-based study combined with immunosuppressant level monitoring was conducted to encompass all pediatric patients who underwent heart transplants at King Abdulaziz Medical City-Central Region over a period of 5 months from January to May 2024. RESULTS More than 95% of patients' parents completed the questionnaire and were included in the final analysis. Among the pediatric post-heart transplant patients, 12 (60%) were males, aged from 6 to 18 years. Most patients (85%) were on tacrolimus, while 15% were on tacrolimus and sirolimus. Using the average blood serum drug levels and the ITAS, the prevalence of non-adherence was found to be 10% and 5%, respectively. Almost 95% of parents reported that they "Never forget about taking immunosuppressive medication". However, a small percentage reported occasional carelessness and missing administration of immunosuppressive medication to their children (5%). One reason given for stopping or missing medication were due to the child feeling worse in overall health (5%). CONCLUSIONS The results of this study indicate generally good adherence among pediatric post-heart transplant patients. Most participants demonstrated acceptable adherence behaviors. Continuous monitoring, support, and education are still necessary to maintain optimal adherence.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.