A meta-analysis of interventions to increase adherence to medication regimens for pediatric otitis media and streptococcal pharyngitis

Abstract

Interventions to increase adherence to medication regimens for acute pediatric illnesses are important for both individual and public health outcomes. To date, there has not been a comprehensive, quantitative analysis of the effectiveness of interventions for acute pediatric illnesses. The current study used meta-analysis to quantitatively synthesize the adherence intervention literature for two common acute childhood illnesses and examined the magnitude of change in adherence as indicated by different outcome measures and the relationship between type of intervention and adherence outcome. Combination interventions were more effective than single strategy interventions. However, families receiving educational interventions alone did not demonstrate better adherence than control groups. Indirect measures of adherence showed more change in adherence than direct measures. The results of this meta-analysis suggest that further work is needed to develop effective interventions for improving adherence for the medication regimens required for short term illness and for optimizing health outcomes.