A Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Text Message Reminders on Asthma Medication Adherence

Georges Adunlin

Samford University McWhorter School of Pharmacy

Jenny Dong

Samford University McWhorter School of Pharmacy

Landon Reeves

Samford University McWhorter School of Pharmacy

Askal Ali

Maisha Kelly Freeman

Samford University McWhorter School of Pharmacy

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24926/iip.v9i3.1370

Keywords: Text messaging, short message service, medication adherence, asthma, systematic review


Abstract

Objective: Cell phone text messaging reminders offers the promise of an efficient technology for the management of chronic diseases, such as asthma. This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of text message reminders in improving medication adherence for asthma compared to usual care.

Methods: Randomized controlled trials assessing the effect of text message reminders on adherence to asthma medication were identified from PubMed, Medline, Web of Knowledge EBSCOhost, OvidSP, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Cochran Health Technology Assessment databases. Literature searches were restricted to the English language, and no restrictions were imposed on the year and country of publication.

Results:  Five studies that were deemed relevant to the systematic review were identified from the literature search. Findings on whether text message reminders improve medication adherence were mixed. However, the review indicates that text-messaging interventions were effective as a means of addressing forgetfulness by reminding patients to take their medications.

Conclusion: This review adds to the body of literature reviewing the effectiveness of emerging technologies in the management of diseases. Despite the fact there is limited evidence across the population of studies to support the effectiveness of text message reminders, such technology represents an important tool to achieve optimal medication adherence among asthmatics.

 

Article Type: Student Project

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Author Biographies

Georges Adunlin, Samford University McWhorter School of Pharmacy

Assistant Professor Department of Pharmaceutical, Social and Administrative Sciences

Jenny Dong, Samford University McWhorter School of Pharmacy

PharmD Candidate 2018

Landon Reeves, Samford University McWhorter School of Pharmacy

PharmD Candidate 2019

Askal Ali

Assistant Professor Economic, Social, and Administrative Pharmacy

Maisha Kelly Freeman, Samford University McWhorter School of Pharmacy

Professor and Director, Center for Healthcare Innovation and Patient Outcomes Research Department of Pharmacy Practice