Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology
SCOPUS
  • Year: 2024
  • Volume: 17
  • Issue: 12

Psychological barriers and the role of health education in medication adherence among patients with acute myocardial infarction: A literature review

  • Author:
  • Zyad T. Saleh1,2, Roqia Saleem Maabreh3, Amal Abdulrahman Murad4, Majed S. Al-Za’areer5, Dana Anwer Abujaber6, Maha Subih7, Wesam T. Almagharbeh8, Dena E. Sobeh9, Mudathir M. Eltayeb9,*, Rami A. Elshatarat10
  • Total Page Count: 9
  • Page Number: 6165 to 6173

1Department of Clinical Nursing, School of Nursing, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan

10Department of Medical and Surgical Nursing, College of Nursing, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia

2Department of Nursing, Vision College, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

3Nursing Department, Applied Medical Science College, Irbid National University, Irbid, Jordan

4Maternity and Childhood Nursing Department, College of Nursing, Taibah University, Madinah, Saudi Arabia

5College of Health Science and Nursing, Al-Rayan Colleges, Madinah, Saudi Arabia

6Faculty of Nursing, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan

7School of Nursing, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan

8Medical Surgical Nursing Department Faculty of Nursing, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia

9Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, College of Nursing, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, AlKharj, Saudi Arabia

*Corresponding Author E-mail: m.mohamedahmed@psau.edu.sa

Online published on 9 May, 2025.

Abstract

Medication adherence is critical for managing patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) to prevent recurrent cardiac events and improve outcomes. However, psychological barriers such as anxiety, depression, and lack of motivation can significantly hinder adherence. Health education interventions can play a pivotal role in addressing these psychological barriers, promoting adherence, and enhancing recovery.

This literature review aims to explore the psychological barriers affecting medication adherence in patients with acute myocardial infarction and examine the effectiveness of health education interventions in overcoming these barriers.

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus. Peer-reviewed articles published between [insert year range] were included, focusing on psychological factors influencing medication adherence and the impact of health education programs on AMI patients. Both qualitative and quantitative studies were analyzed to provide a balanced understanding of the topic.

Findings indicate that psychological barriers, including depression, anxiety, and fear of medication side effects, are common among AMI patients and negatively affect adherence. Health education interventions, particularly those tailored to individual patient needs, were shown to improve medication adherence by addressing misconceptions, promoting self-management, and reducing psychological distress. However, the effectiveness of these programs varies depending on the delivery method and patient engagement.

Addressing psychological barriers is essential for improving medication adherence in AMI patients. Health education interventions offer a valuable strategy to enhance adherence, particularly when they are personalized and patient-centered. Further research is needed to optimize these educational approaches and explore long-term effects on adherence and health outcomes.

Keywords

Acute Myocardial Infarction, Medication Adherence, Psychological Barriers, Health Education, Anxiety, Depression