Prescription patterns and adequacy of blood pressure control among adult hypertensive patients in Kenya; findings and implications

Jennifer M. Mbui, Margaret N. Oluka, Eric M. Guantai, Kipruto A. Sinei, Loice Achieng, Amanj Baker, Mary Jande, Amos Massele, Brian Godman*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

42 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a major cause of global morbidity and mortality, with high prevalence rates in Africa including Kenya. Consequently, it is imperative to understand current treatment approaches and their effectiveness in practice. Currently, there is paucity of such data in Kenya, which is a concern. The aim is to describe prescribing patterns and adequacy of blood pressure (BP) control in adult hypertensive patients to guide future practice. Method: Retrospective study of patients attending a sub-county outpatient clinic combined with qualitative interviews. Results: 247 hypertensive patients, predominantly female, mean age 55.8 years on antihypertensive therapy for 1–5 years, were analyzed. ACEIs and thiazide diuretics were the most commonly prescribed drugs, mainly as combination therapy. Treatment typically complied with guidelines, mainly for stage 2 hypertension (75%). BP control was observed in 46% of patients, with a significant reduction in mean systolic (155 to 144 mmHg) and diastolic (91 to 83 mmHg) BP (P < 0.001). Patients on ≥2 antihypertensive drugs were more likely to have uncontrolled BP (OR:1.9, p = 0.021). Conclusion: Encouragingly good adherence to guidelines was helped by training. Poor blood pressure control in the majority needs to be addressed. Additional training of prescribers and follow-up of measures to improve BP control will be introduced and followed up.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1263-1271
Number of pages9
JournalExpert Review of Clinical Pharmacology
Volume10
Issue number11
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2 Nov 2017
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Hypertension
  • Kenya
  • antihypertensive medicines
  • prescribing patterns
  • treatment guidelines

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