Introducing the importance and difficulties of a three-step approach to improve nonadherence to antihypertensive drugs: a case series

Nonadherence to antihypertensive drugs is an important reason for not reaching blood pressure goals. A possible method to improve nonadherence involves three essential steps: identification of nonadherent patients (step 1), determination of underlying causes (step 2) and a personalized solution (step 3). We present three unique cases to show the importance and difficulties of this three-step approach. Patients participated in a randomized controlled trial to improve nonadherence to antihypertensive drugs (RHYME-RCT, Dutch Trial Register NL6736). Drug level measurements were used to identify nonadherence to antihypertensive drugs and communication on drug levels was supported by a tailored feedback tool in these patients. These cases showed that a three-step approach of identifying nonadherence and determination of the underlying cause, can lead to a personalized solution to improve therapy even when nonadherence was excluded. Open communication with patients remains an essential part when improving nonadherence.