Families and medication use and adherence among Latinos with schizophrenia

Abstract

Background: Medication nonadherence among Latinos with schizophrenia represents a significant treatment obstacle. Although some studies have examined patient and family perceptions of adherence, few have examined these perceptions together. However, such knowledge can provide a deeper understanding of how family processes may contribute to or impede adherence among underserved groups such as Latinos.

Aims: This study explored perceptions of medication and adherence among Latinos with schizophrenia and key family members.

Method: Purposive sampling was used to collect data from 34 participants: 14 patients with schizophrenia receiving community-based mental health services in an urban public setting and 20 key family members. Informed by grounded theory, semistructured interviews were analyzed by bilingual–bicultural team members.

Results: Salient themes emerged indicating facilitators of and obstacles to medication use. Specifically, challenges centered on medication side effects, autonomy and choice, and illness insight, whereas facilitators focused on family support and holistic views of treatment and empowerment.

Conclusions: Because the majority of Spanish-speaking Latinos with schizophrenia live with family, it is important to examine family factors that may influence medication use. Findings suggest that patient and family perceptions of medication should be examined as part of the treatment process, particularly regarding issues of autonomy and choice.

• Serious mental illness
• community mental health
• Hispanic
• treatment adherence
• autonomy and choice

Acknowledgements

The authors thank the families, providers, and community advisory board members who participated in this study.

Declaration of interest

The authors certify their responsibility for the research presented and report no known conflict of interest. Dr. Hernandez received support from the National Institute of Mental Health (R36 MH102077) and Dr. Barrio received support from the National Institute of Mental Health (R34 MH076087).