Medication Adherence and Glycemic Control Among Diabetic Patients at a General Hospital in Lafia, Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria

Achieving optimal glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus requires consistent adherence to prescribed antidiabetic medications alongside lifestyle modifications. Poor adherence remains a significant barrier to diabetes management in resource-constrained Nigerian settings. This study examined medication adherence levels and their relationship with glycemic control outcomes among diabetic patients at a general hospital in Lafia, Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted, recruiting 210 type 2 diabetic outpatients. Adherence was measured using the four-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, and glycemic control was assessed through fasting plasma glucose and most recently available glycated hemoglobin values extracted from patient records. High adherence was recorded in only 33 percent of participants, with the majority reporting medium or low adherence. Non-adherence was significantly associated with higher mean fasting blood glucose levels and suboptimal glycated hemoglobin. Forgetfulness, cost of antidiabetic medications, long clinic waiting times, and side effects were the most commonly reported adherence barriers. Patients who received periodic pharmacist counseling visits showed measurably better adherence. The study recommends establishing dedicated diabetic medication adherence clinics within hospitals in Nasarawa State, with pharmacists leading adherence support sessions. Integration of community health workers for follow-up support between clinic visits is also recommended. Keywords: medication adherence, glycemic control, type 2 diabetes, Lafia, pharmacist intervention