Study of factors affecting drug compliance in schizophrenia- cross sectional survey

Introduction: Schizophrenia is a condition characterized by delusions, hallucinations, disorganized behavior, disorganized thought, and negative symptoms. There is overwhelming evidence that antipsychotics can be effective in treating the symptoms of schizophrenia. Approximately 75% of individuals relapse without drugs compared to 25% with drug. Patients who receive long-acting depot have lower relapse rates than patients who receive oral medications. The factors affecting drug compliance include side effects, psychopathology, social support, and insight. Indian studies are comparatively few in this area; knowledge of these factors can help in formulating strategies for enhancing drug compliance and outcome. Methods: This study was conducted at the Department of Psychiatry T D Medical College, Alleppey, a tertiary care teaching hospital. Patients who attended the Outpatient department were assessed with following instruments, Positive and negative symptom scale, Udvalg Klinske Undersogelser Side Effect Rating Scale, Multidimensional scale of perceived social support, Scale to assess Unawareness of Mental Disorder (SUMD), Compliance was assessed by using the criteria of fully compliant defined as those miss less than 20% of medication, partially compliant those who misses 20% to 80% of medication and noncompliant those who miss more than 80% of medicines. Data was analysed using Chi square test and regression analysis. Result: Sex, Education status, marital status, Occupation, and drugs administered had significant relationships with Compliance. Conclusion:, it is advisable to use minimum number of drugs for ensuring compliance