Pattern of Anti-hypertensive Prescription and Adherence to Anti- Hypertensive Medications among Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease in A Tertiary Health Care Facility in Southern Nigeria

Background: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) often need pharmacological management for the rest of their lives. However, given the intricacy of specific regimens that call for the administration of various dosages, forms and frequency, sustaining continuous adherence is especially difficult. The aim of this study was to determine the level of medication adherence and factors associated with medical adherence among CKD patients in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH). Methods: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among 241 CKD patients in the renal outpatient clinic of UPTH who were selected by systematic sampling. The data on the variables were obtained using a semi-structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. Categorical and numerical variables were summarized accordingly. Chi-square test was used to assess associations, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The result showed that 184 (76.3%) of the respondents take diuretics while 164(68%) and 110(45.6%) were on calcium channel and beta-blockers respectively. 169 (70.1%), 57(23.7%) had low and moderate adherence respectively while 15(6.2%) had high medication adherence. The factors associated with medication adherence were partners level of education p=0.005, average monthly income p=0.028, relationship status p=0.013, duration of diagnosis p<0.001 and family history of CKD P=0.034. Conclusion: Diuretics and calcium channel blockers were the most frequently used anti-hypertensives. Medication adherence was comparatively low. Patient oriented management that takes into consideration patients' socioeconomic status, educational level, relationship status, family history of CKD, and duration of illness may improve adherence and treatment outcomes.