Satisfaction with antipsychotics as a medication: the role of therapeutic alliance and patient-perceived participation in decision making in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to identify independent predictors of satisfaction with antipsychotics in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders treated in a mental health catchment area. METHODS: Observational analytical study of patients (n = 150) recruited through a convenience sampling method from five mental health units. Satisfaction with the antipsychotic as a medication was evaluated using the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM). Therapeutic alliance was assessed by the Working Alliance Inventory Short Form (WAI-S). Patient-perceived participation in decision-making was assessed using COMRADE (Combined Outcome Measure for Risk communication And treatment Decision making Effectiveness). A multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify variables independently associated with the TSQM 'Global Satisfaction' total score. RESULTS: Two variables - age and higher level of self-perceived participation in treatment decision-making - were directly, significantly, and independently associated (ß coefficient values 0.209 and 0.432, respectively) with a higher TSQM Global satisfaction score. In addition, the severity of psychotic symptoms was inversely associated with satisfaction (ß coefficient value -0.205) (R2 = 0.355; R2 adj. = 0.291; F(13) = 5.554; p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that involving the patient in treatment decision-making and optimising the treatment to reduce symptoms, especially in younger patients, could increase satisfaction with antipsychotic treatment.Key PointsPatient involvement in shared decision-making is relevant for treatment satisfaction.Current evidence suggests that improving the doctor-patient relationship optimises antipsychotics outcomes.Self-perceived participation in decision-making predicts satisfaction with antipsychotic medication.Types of antipsychotics do not determine consistent differences in satisfaction.