The influence of adverse drug effects on health-related quality of life in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

• Published in: The International journal of pharmacy practice 2022-11, Vol.30 (5), p.457-465
• Main Authors: Altawalbeh, Shoroq M, Almomani, Basima A, Alefan, Qais, Mohammad Momany, Suleiman, Al-Share, Qusai Y
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0961-7671; 2042-7174
• DOI: 10.1093/ijpp/riac052

OBJECTIVESChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Concerns have been raised about the influence of adverse drug effects on patient's health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in COPD patients. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of COPD treatment-related adverse effects on HRQoL in COPD patients. METHODSIn a cross-sectional study, COPD patients aged 40 years or older were identified and interviewed during their hospital visits. The EuroQol 5 Dimension 5 Level (EQ-5D-5L) questionnaire was used for evaluating HRQoL. Potential treatment adverse effects were evaluated as experienced by participants during the last 2 weeks preceding the interview. The intensity of adverse effects was reported in the following categories: never, mild, moderate and severe. Multivariable linear regression model was performed to evaluate the influence of adverse drug effects on utility scores as an indicator of HRQoL. KEY FINDINGSA total of 203 patients diagnosed with COPD were recruited in the current study. The mean utility score of the study sample was 0.68 (SD = 0.36). Moderate-severe constipation, moderate-severe confusion, mild urinary hesitation, moderate-severe urinary hesitation, moderate-severe dry eyes and moderate-severe drowsiness were significant predictors/determinants for the average utility scores (coefficients were -0.099, -0.191, -0.111, -0.157 and -0.144, respectively). In addition, having higher COPD Assessment Test scores and severe disease was negatively associated with average utility scores (coefficients were -0.287 and -0.124, respectively). CONCLUSIONSHigher intensity of COPD treatment-related adverse effects has a negative influence on HRQoL in COPD patients. Anticholinergic drug effects are of concern in COPD adults' population.