[Factors related to treatment adherence in schizophrenic patients].

Background: The percentage of lack of adherence in schizophrenia is estimated in 50%. Non-compliance cause higher rates of relapses, rehospitalizations, suicide, homicide and violent behaviour among schizophrenic patients. The aim of this study was to find several factors related to adherence in schizophrenia.
Material and Methods: 40 schizophrenic patients were assessed with a protocol which examined sociodemographic, clinical and therapeutical variables, scales in order to evaluate insight (Birchwood), drug attitude (Drug Attitude Inventory), psychopathology (BPRS) and side effects (UKU). Variables of outcome and overall functioning (GAS) in the previous year were also included.
Results: Multiple regression analysis revealed that BPRS thought disorder subscale and UKU neurologic side effects subscale predicted 24% of the variance of adherence. Adherence is related to insight and attitude to medication too. An adequate adherence was related to better overall functioning, less psychopathology and fewer hospitalizations during the year prior to the study.