Abstract 173: Predictors of Medication Noncompliance in Patients with an Acute Myocardial Infarction

Abstract

Background: Aspirin, P2Y12 inhibitors, Statins, Angiotensin-Converting-Enzyme Inhibitor/Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers and Beta Blockers improve outcomes for patients with an Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI). Despite this, some patients remain noncompliant with medications. We investigated potential predictors of medication noncompliance in patients with an AMI. Method: We examined adult patients with an AMI enrolled in a quality improvement program (QIP). Patients discharged prior to enrollment or those discharged to skilled nursing facilities were excluded. The primary outcome was medication noncompliance at the first follow up visit - defined as not taking at least 1 of the medications listed above. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for noncompliance. Results: Among 173 patients enrolled in the QIP, 119 patients (Mean age 64 +/- 1 year; 32% Females) had data regarding their follow-up office visit, of which 32% of patients were noncompliant. Table 1 lists the univariate and multivariate predictors of noncompliance. Among 25 clinical and socio-demographic variables examined, we found that needing help with medical care, or being a primary care giver to others were each associated with a roughly 5 fold higher risk of medication noncompliance. Conclusion: A significant number of patients with an AMI are noncompliant with their medications. Social support programs should focus efforts on providing patients with the help needed at home to ensure compliance with care.