ADHERENCE TO ANTI-DIABETIC MEDICATIONS AMONG SAUDI DIABETIC PATIENTS - A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Background: A significant public health issue and a significant risk factor for the emergence of diabetes complications is poor and insufficient glycemic control among type 2 diabetes patients. Social scientists and medical professionals are both concerned about the rising prevalence of non-adherence to medical treatment. As a result, a sizable portion of patients do not benefit sufficiently from medical care, which leads to subpar health outcomes, a decreased quality of life, and higher healthcare costs. Objectives: This study aims to assess the extent of anti-diabetic drug adherence and determine factors associated with non-adherence among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Saudi Arabia. Methods: For article selection, the PubMed database was used. All relevant articles relevant with our topic and other articles were used in our review. Other articles that were not related to this field were excluded. The data was extracted in a specific format that was reviewed by the group members. Conclusion: The study included 13 studies in different region in Saudi Arabia. Moderated level of adherence was noted generally in Saudi Arabia. The highest levels of adherence was reported in Tabuk. Young age and polypharmacy were significantly correlated with adherence. Despite the availability of numerous new medication classes, increased patient education efforts, and targeted interventions that address adherence, medication adherence in T2D remains low. Keywords: diabetes, adherence, compliance, barriers, Saudi Arabia, T2DM, T1D