Effect of an 'implementation intention' intervention on adherence to oral anti-diabetic medication in Brazilians with type 2 diabetes.

Abstract

To evaluate the effects of an implementation intention intervention on adherence to an oral anti-diabetic medication regime, diabetes-related distress and on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A randomized, parallel-group, single-center controlled trial was conducted among adults with type 2 diabetes being managed at the primary care level. The intervention group (IG, n = 45) received an 'implementation intention' intervention; the control group (CG, n = 45) received standard care. Primary outcomes were the taking of oral anti-diabetic medication, global adherence and level of glycated hemoglobin. The secondary outcome was diabetes-related distress. Data were gathered at baseline and after 15 weeks. The IG showed improvements in adherence to an oral anti-diabetic medication regime (p < 0.0001), glycemic control (p < 0.0001) and diabetes-related distress (p < 0.0001) relative to the CG. The implementation intention intervention enhanced adherence to an oral anti-diabetic medication regime, which had positive effects on blood glucose levels and diabetes-related distress. Adherence to an oral anti-diabetic medication regime can decrease blood glucose levels and diabetes-related distress and thus reduce complications of type 2 diabetes.