Identifying the barriers to antiepileptic drug adherence among children with newly diagnosed epilepsy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20251864Keywords:
Barriers, Epilepsy, Adherence, Children, Compliance, Antiepileptic drugAbstract
Background: Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder with significant health consequences. Adherence to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is vital for effective seizure control. Poor adherence is associated with increased hospitalizations, reduced quality of life and higher mortality. In children, ensuring adherence is especially challenging, involving caregivers, the child and clinicians. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors associated with AED non-adherence in children aged 3 months to 18 years with newly diagnosed epilepsy.
Methods: A Prospective, longitudinal observational study was conducted in 120 children with newly diagnosed epilepsy in the Department of pediatrics, LLRM Medical college, Meerut, from October 2022 to September 2023. Adherence was assessed using the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) and factors influencing non-adherence were evaluated using the Pediatric Epilepsy Medication Self- Management Questionnaire during follow-up interviews.
Results: AED non-adherence was observed in 48% of participants. Factors associated with non-adherence: Socio-demographic: Rural residence (53%), lower parental education (75%), Clinical: frequent seizures (74%), polytherapy (60.5%), Caregiver-related: Poor treatment knowledge (71%), forgetfulness (90.5%), running out of medication (80%), lack of belief in treatment (75%) and Child-related: Refusal to take medication (87.6%).
Conclusions: Nearly half of the children with epilepsy were non-adherent to AEDs. Major barriers included caregiver forgetfulness, run out of medication and child refusal. Addressing these modifiable factors is essential to improve adherence and health outcomes in pediatric epilepsy.
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