PhD Scientific Days 2025

Poster Session I. - F: Pharmaceutical Sciences and Health Technologies

Study on the pharmacists' contribution in elderly/aged patients' therapeutic adherence to statin therapy: a randomized controlled trial

Name of the presenter

Artner Anna

Institute/workplace of the presenter

Semmelweis University, University Pharmacy - Department of Pharmacy Administration

Authors

Artner Anna¹, Hankó Balázs¹, Eőry Ajándék², Torzsa Péter², Zelkó Romána¹

1: Semmelweis Egyetem, Egyetemi Gyógyszertár – Gyógyszerügyi Szervezési Intézet
2: Semmelweis Egyetem, Családorvosi Tanszék

Text of the abstract

Abstract
Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death worldwide, particularly among elderly, polymorbid patients who often take multiple medications (polypharmacy). Statin therapy effectively reduces cardiovascular risk, but adherence is often low, which negatively impacts treatment outcomes. The involvement of pharmacists in patient care offers an opportunity to reduce medication-related problems, improve adherence, and support doctor-patient communication.
Aims: This study aims to examine, through a randomized controlled trial, how pharmaceutical care and pharmacist-led interventions in general practice can optimize medication therapy in polymorbid patients over 65 years of age receiving statin treatment.
Methods: In this 12-month follow-up study, 100 patients are randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group receives pharmacist consultations, including structured counseling, medication review, and patient education, while the control group continues to receive usual care from their general practitioner. Data collection takes place in collaboration with the GP, both in person and through the Electronic Health Service Space (EESZT) system. Ethics approval number: SE RKEB: 192/2024.
Results: The findings highlight the impact of personalized pharmaceutical care in general practice on optimizing medication use, improving adherence, and enhancing cardiovascular outcomes. The collaboration between general practitioners and pharmacists may improve the quality of patient care, while active patient involvement and increased health literacy could lead to sustainable health improvements.
Conclusion: Pharmaceutical care in general practice is a potentially effective tool for optimizing medication therapy in elderly patients—especially regarding statin therapy—thus contributing to cardiovascular risk reduction and overall improvement in patient care.
Keywords: statin therapy, adherence, pharmaceutical care, pharmacist-led interventions, general practice, elderly patients