Does Written and Verbal Clopidogrel Education Increase Adherence?

Abstract

Clopidogrel, also known as Plavix, is widely prescribed for patients with coronary artery disease and/or peripheral vascular disease, and has been shown to reduce the incidence of death related to drug-eluting stent thrombosis. Health care professionals provide education for patients with heart disease. It is important for patients to have comprehensive education, as serious morbidity and morality may occur with premature discontinuation of medications. <p>The purpose of this study was to determine if patients would have better adherence to clopdiogrel with written and verbal education, then with "usual" care. From May 2008 to August 2008 sixteen adults were randomized. The randomized control group received the "usual" form of education. The randomized experimental group received the additional education tool on clopidogrel, in addition to the "usual" education. At ninety days, there was no statistically significan difference in compliance between the control and experimental groups (100% versus 85.7%, respectively).