Can mindfulness training improve medication adherence? integrative review of the current evidence and proposed conceptual model

Publication date: Available online 23 October 2017 Source:EXPLORE: The Journal of Science and Healing Author(s): Elena Salmoirago-Blotcher, Michael P. Carey Medication adherence is a complex, multi-determined behavior that is often influenced by system- (e.g., cost), drug- (e.g., regimen complexity), and patient-related (e.g., depression) factors. System-level approaches (e.g., making medications more affordable) are critically important but do not address patient-level factors that can undermine adherence. In this paper, we identify patient-level determinants of non-adherence and discuss whether mindfulness-training approaches that target these determinants can help to improve adherence to medical treatment. We highlight two chronic medical conditions (viz., heart failure, HIV) where poor adherence is a significant concern, and examine the evidence regarding the use of mindfulness interventions to improve medication adherence in these two conditions. We also discuss the theoretical underpinnings of mindfulness training with respect to medication adherence, and conclude by suggesting directions for future research.
Source: EXPLORE: The Journal of Science and Healing - Category: Complementary Medicine Source Type: research