Barriers and enablers to antiseizure medication adherence in children with epilepsy: a systematic review using the theoretical domains framework (TDF) - Scorecard - MDSpire
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Identifying Factors Influencing Adherence to Antiseizure Medications in Pediatric Epilepsy: A Systematic Review Utilizing the Theoretical Domains Framework

  • By

  • Eric Amankona Abrefa Kyeremaa

  • Majed Alorabi

  • Charlotte Lawthom

  • Sion Scott

  • Caroline Smith

  • Andy Stewart

  • David Wright

  • May 6, 2026

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Clinical Scorecard: Identifying Factors Influencing Adherence to Antiseizure Medications in Pediatric Epilepsy: A Systematic Review Utilizing the Theoretical Domains Framework

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionPediatric Epilepsy
Key MechanismsBehavioral mechanisms influencing adherence to antiseizure medications (ASMs) identified through the theoretical domains framework (TDF).
Target PopulationChildren with epilepsy (CWE).
Care SettingHealthcare settings involving pediatric epilepsy management.

Key Highlights

  • Non-adherence to ASMs in CWE ranges from 26% to 79% globally.
  • Identified 83 factors influencing ASM adherence, including 51 barriers and 32 enablers.
  • Key barriers include unpleasant taste, large tablet size, and fear of addiction.
  • Healthcare professionals need to recognize multiple factors influencing ASM adherence.
  • Theory-informed interventions are necessary to improve adherence.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

    Management

      Monitoring & Follow-up

        Risks

          Patient & Prescribing Data

          Children with epilepsy (CWE).

          Adherence is influenced by medication formulation, side effects, emotional responses, and understanding of treatment.

          Clinical Best Practices

          • Utilize the theoretical domains framework (TDF) to identify barriers and enablers of ASM adherence.
          • Develop theory-informed interventions to address non-adherence in CWE.

          Related Resources & Content

          Original Source(s)

          Barriers and enablers to antiseizure medication adherence in children with epilepsy: a systematic review using the theoretical domains framework (TDF)

          • by Eric Amankona Abrefa Kyeremaa, Majed Alorabi, Charlotte Lawthom, Sion Scott, Caroline Smith, Andy Stewart, David Wright

          • May 6, 2026

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