Medication adherence in successful kidney transplant recipients

Objective-To explore the medication-taking behavior of successful kidney transplant recipients and determine what behaviors were common among this group. Methods-Open-ended interviews were conducted by telephone with 19 individuals who had successfully maintained a transplanted kidney for 25 years or more. Data were coded by using a grounded theory approach to explore patterns of phenomena, common descriptions, and relationships. Results-Four themes emerged as participants described the behaviors they developed to adhere successfully to the immunosuppressive medication required for maintaining their transplanted kidneys. The themes were reminder methods, obtaining medications, maintaining routines, and problem-solving strategies. Kidney transplant recipients identified the importance of developing and maintaining medication-taking skills and routines on medication adherence. Problem-solving abilities were also valuable during times of disruption of normal routines. Conclusions-Interventions focusing on medication-taking skills, habit formation, and resources for problem solving may improve immunosuppressive medication adherence and clinical outcomes in kidney transplant recipients. (Progress in Transplantation. 2009;19:167-172)