Adherence to Anti-epileptic Drugs and Seizure Control Among Patients Attending Kawe Clinics in Nairobi County

Abstract

Background: Epilepsy is a chronic non-communicable disease affecting the brain. Adherence to drugs is a major issue in chronic diseases, with non-adherence being the largest predictor of poorly epilepsy control. There are limited studies looking at non-adherence and seizure control in primary level, health care facilities, hence this study. Objectives: To determine the level of adherence to antiepileptic drugs and seizure control among patients attending KAWE clinics in Nairobi county. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study on 382 epileptic patients was done between October and November 2021. Data collection was through a study proforma, and the morisky medication assessment scale-4, tool. P values and 95% confidence levels were calculated where applicable. Results: Majority of the patients were adherent at 67.5% (258) while 32.5% (124) were nonadherent. In terms of seizure control, 23.0% (88), 39.5% (151), 37.4% (143) patients had well-controlled, partially controlled, and poorly controlled seizures respectively. Non-adherence was found to be associated with forgetfulness, being separated and widowed, increased seizure frequency in the past 6 months, level of seizure control, use of polytherapy at the start of epilepsy treatment, longer duration of prescription refill time and the use of alternative methods of treatment. There was a significant association between non-adherence with both partial and poor seizure control. Conclusion: Adherence to AEDs among patients attending KAWE clinics was at 67.5% while non-adherence at 32.5%. Poor control of epilepsy is still a major problem with a prevalence of 37.4%, and it is significantly associated with non-adherence to AED