Factors associated with drug adherence and blood pressure control in patients with hypertension.

Study Objectives: To determine characteristics associated with drug adherence and blood pressure control among patients with hypertension, and to assess agreement between self-reported and refill adherences.

Design: Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from an ongoing randomized controlled trial.

Setting: Primary care center at an urban, county health system in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Methodology of an ongoing, randomized, controlled trial to improve drug use for elderly patients with chronic heart failure.

Background: Medications can improve the functioning and health-related quality of life of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and reduce morbidity, mortality, and costs of treatment. However, patients may not adhere to therapy. Patients with complex medication regimens and low health literacy are at risk for nonadherence.