Statin Use in Jordan: Patients Experience and Attitude toward Adverse Drug Reactions

Abstract

Purpose: the aim of this study is to evaluate patients’ experience of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with statins "HMG-CoA-reductase inhibitors" use and the patients’ attitude toward these ADRs in Jordan, in terms of reporting ADRs, patient adherence and patients’ beliefs, from the patients’ point of view. Methods: A cross sectional study was used via a paper-based questionnaire that was distributed among community pharmacies in the capital Amman to be filled by eligible adult patients. A total of 153 patients had completely answered the questionnaire. Results: A percentage of (72.5%) of the patients reported experiencing ADRs associated with statin drugs. Percentages of patients experienced symptoms related to myopathy, peripheralneuropathy, and some incidents of memory loss problems were (64.7%) (41.2%) (35.9%),` respectively. The prevalence of ADRs was influenced by drug generics; simvastatin showed the highest rate of ADRs. Patient adherence to statin therapy was affected by the presence of ADRs, only 58.2% of participants were adherent to their statin drug. Conclusion: There were differences between different statin agents in the pattern of reporting ADRs. The variability between associated ADRs needs to be considered by physicians when prescribing this drug. Determining the best tolerated statin drug may enhance the patient’s adherence.