Abstract

Complexity of medication regimens may adversely affect adherence and treatment outcome. The aim of this study was to assess the complexity of medication regimens. In this retrospective study, complexity of the medication regimens for outpatients was assessed using the medication regimen complexity index (MRCI). The correlation between medication complexity and the parameters of age, gender, underlying disorder and the number of medications were determined. Significant parameters impact on medication complexity were found to be age and number of medications. Therefore older patients, as well as patients taking several medications, should be monitored for compliance and adherence must be emphasized.

Key words: Medication, complexity, adherence, treatment, regimens.

Abbreviation

MRCI, Medication regimen complexity index.