Background: Hypertension affects 1.28 billion individuals globally and is one of the key
public health issues in Canada impacting nearly one in four adults. Non-adherence to
antihypertensive medications is a major contributor to uncontrolled hypertension and
related complications.
Objective: To examine the strategies that can be used by primary care providers to
improve medication adherence in adult patients with hypertension.
Methods: An integrative literature review approach (Toronto & Remington, 2020) was
used along with the PRISMA guidelines (2021). A systematic search of CINAHL and
Ovid MEDLINE was undertaken. A critical appraisal was conducted using two tools.
Results: Six studies met the inclusion criteria. Study designs included randomized
controlled trials, observational cohorts, and mixed-methods studies from developed
countries. Three key strategies were identified to improve medication adherence in adults
with hypertension within primary care settings: patient-centered interventions (e.g.,
education tools, reminders, self-monitoring); collaborative care strategies involving
pharmacists and nurses; and fixed-dose combination therapies.
Conclusion: Findings indicate that while several single strategies can support medication
adherence in adults with hypertension, primary care providers should use a combination of
strategies to achieve the most effective improvements in medication adherence and clinical
outcomes.
