AstraZeneca has ended the adherence programme it provides through community pharmacies because its effects on compliance are inconclusive and pharmacist participation in the scheme has dwindled.
The “Making the most of your medicines” initiative was launched two years ago (PJ, 22 March 2008, p327) in a bid to improve adherence with AstraZeneca medicines Arimidex, Crestor, Nexium and Symbicort. Over 1,200 pharmacists were trained to take part in the scheme but only 51 sites remain engaged in the programme.
The company says that feedback from pharmacists via its advisory board suggests that time challenges and concern about paperwork could explain why the transition from training to active participation in the scheme has been challenging.
A total of 1,297 patients have taken part in the scheme, 245 of whom have completed three consultations consistent with programme requirements.
