The Effectiveness of Short Messaging Systems in Improving Medication Adherence among Adult Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

Abstract

Background: Using short messaging system (SMS) technology has proven to enhance medication adherence (MA). Previous research on SMS interventions found that using mobile phones are effective in improving MA among patients with cardiovascular diseases including those with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, there is no existing review on this topic, particularly among adult patients with CAD. Aim: This structured literature review aimed to assess the extent of effectiveness in using SMS to improve MA among adult patients with CAD. Methodology: MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL were searched for peer-reviewed randomised controlled trial (RCT) studies published in English language between 2013 and 2023. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 criteria guided the screening and selection of six RCT studies. Data extraction was guided by the Cochrane Handbook and quality of included studies was evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) assessment tool for RCTs. Results: The primary outcomes showed that CAD patients assigned to the intervention (SMS) groups had significantly better MA than the control or usual care groups, except for one study that reported adherence to healthy lifestyle practices instead. Secondary outcomes were also discussed in this review. Conclusion: SMS reminders were effective in improving MA among adult patients with CAD. SMS-based program can optimise MA for adult patients with CAD and has potential to have similar effects to patients with other cardiovascular diseases. Future RCT trials may focus on exploring the impact of SMS-based text reminders to other treatment recommendations in adult CAD patients.