Struggling with Medication Adherence

Mr. A is a 73-year-old African American man with high blood pressure for 40 years, currently well-controlled. He is a retired civil engineer; however, he sometimes works as a substitute teacher. His socioeconomic status is middle-class. He struggles with medication adherence and only takes his medication as needed.

• Family History: Hypertension, heart attack, colon cancer

• Medications: Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide 10/12.5 mg tablets daily

• Dietary Supplements: Triple Magnesium Complex 400 mg capsules Cod Liver Oil Capsules 300 mg Vitamin B12 1000 mcg Soft gel capsules Turmeric Curcumin with Bioprene 2600 mg capsules Centrum Silver Multivitamins

Interview:

Q: What difficulties do you experience when remembering to take your medication?

A: Having a difficult time remembering to take medication. Do not follow a regimen. Currently, he is using a pillbox to help him remember.

Q: How often do you follow-up with a primary care physician for the management of your disease?

A: Every year.

Q: What adverse reactions are you experiencing when taking the medication?

A: None.

Q: What lifestyle modifications do you implement to manage your disease?

A: Power walks 30 minutes every day. Replaces table salt with Pink Himalayan salt. Eats a lot of vegetables.

Q: How do you feel about your medications, do you believe they work well to treat your disorder?

A: Believes medications are effective.

Q: What obstacles do you experience when managing your disease?

A: Medication non-adherence.

Q: Do you believe you can continue managing your disease? What problems do you foresee that may prevent you from achieving optimal care?

A: Yes! However, old age and memory loss may cause him to skip doses of medication.