Medication Adherence of Clients Complaining of Schizophrenia in Saudi Arabia
, Nora M. Al-Yahya . 2013
This study aimed to evaluate the relations of insight on, symptoms of and knowledge about
schizophrenia with medication adherence in people with schizophrenia at Al Amal Complex, Riyadh City.
A quantitative, descriptive, exploratory research design was utilized in this study. The study was conducted
at Al Amal Complex, Riyadh City; 20 female participants complaining of schizophrenia were enrolled. Data were
collected using four tools: insight observation and assessment questionnaire, social withdrawal observation
scale, medication observation checklist and demographic data questionnaire. Results revealed that clients with
schizophrenia had impaired insight that led to non-adherence to medication regimens. In conclusion,
Assessment of client symptoms and adherence reported an exacerbation of psychotic symptoms and lack of
understanding for the purpose of psychotic medication however medication adherence was surprisingly not
very low. The findings suggested that there is need for a psycho-educational program developed specifically
for clients with chronic schizophrenia. Such a program should include content to enhance client insights on
schizophrenia and adherence to medication regimens.
