DefinePK

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus poses a growing global health challenge, with approximately 463 million adults (9.3%) aged 20–79 affected worldwide. Without effective intervention, this figure is projected to rise to 578 million (10.2%) by 2030. One of the major barriers to effective management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is poor medication adherence, which directly impacts glycemic control and increases the risk of complications.
Objective: To assess the effectiveness of pharmacist-led interventions in improving medication adherence and glycemic outcomes among patients with T2DM in South Asian countries.
Methods: This narrative review analyzed 21 studies published within the last two decades across five South Asian countries: Bangladesh (n=1), Sri Lanka (n=1), Nepal (n=3), Pakistan (n=8), and India (n=8). Studies included randomized controlled trials, interventional and longitudinal studies that evaluated pharmacist-led educational or counseling interventions. Eligible participants were adult T2DM patients receiving either oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin. Data collection methods included validated instruments such as the Diabetes Knowledge Questionnaire (DKQ), Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (DSMQ), and Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS), as well as laboratory parameters like HbA1c and fasting blood glucose levels. Statistical analyses in the primary studies included pre-post comparisons, multivariate models, and paired t-tests to measure intervention impact.
Results: Across the reviewed studies, pharmacist-led interventions led to significant reductions in HbA1c (mean decrease: 0.8% to 1.2%) and fasting blood glucose (average reduction: 15–30 mg/dL). Medication adherence improved by 25–60% in intervention groups compared to controls. Improvements were also seen in patient knowledge, self-care behaviors, and health-related quality of life. Interventions were effective across diverse settings, including hospitals, community pharmacies, and rural clinics.
Conclusion: Pharmacist-led interventions significantly enhance medication adherence, glycemic control, and patient education in T2DM management. Integrating pharmacists into multidisciplinary care models can optimize diabetes care and reduce the long-term burden of complications, particularly in resource-limited South Asian settings.