Improved glaucoma medication adherence in a randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE To test the effectiveness of an intervention designed to improve glaucoma medication adherence. DESIGN Randomized, controlled trial at a VA eye clinic. PARTICIPANTS Veterans with medically treated glaucoma who reported poor adherence, and their companions if applicable. METHODS Participants, and their companions if applicable, were randomized to receive an intervention to improve medication adherence that included glaucoma education, personalized disease management suggestions, and a reminder aid, or the control arm which received education regarding general eye health. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The average proportion of prescribed glaucoma medication doses taken on schedule over the six months following randomization according to an electronic monitor between participants in the two arms. RESULTS The mean proportion of prescribed doses taken on schedule was higher in the intervention group compared to controls (0.85 versus 0.62, p<0.0001). The difference in proportions between the two groups did not vary in regressions models adjusted for companion status, frequency of dosing, and race. The longitudinal model indicated that the intervention group had significantly higher adherence during the first month after randomization, and continued to stay higher through six months (month by treatment interaction, p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS A multi-faceted intervention can help improve glaucoma medication adherence.