Objective: To identify determinants of medication compliance and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol goal attainment.
Study design: This retrospective analysis used claims data from a large, national, employment-based independent practice association database. Subjects were identified based on the existence of a filled prescription for statin therapy between April 1, 1999, and June 30, 2001. Subjects had to be 18 years or older, continuously enrolled in the health plan for 2 years, and new users of statin therapy.
Methods: Multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of compliance and goal attainment in high-risk subjects.
Results: As the mean copayment for statins increased, there was a decrease in the likelihood of compliance. Of the subjects with laboratory results, 50.7% attained their low-density lipoprotein cholesterol goal level established by National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines. Older individuals and men were more likely to reach their low-density lipoprotein cholesterol target goal, as were individuals who were compliant with their statin therapy.
Conclusions: Compliance with statin therapy in the managed care setting remains poor. Of particular concern is the lower level of compliance among women and younger high-risk patients, along with patients who have fewer outpatient visits associated with hyperlipidemia and lower incidences of cholesterol testing.