The Effect of Blister Packaging Iron and Folate on Adherence to Medication and Hemoglobin Levels Among Pregnant Women at National Referral Hospital Antenatal Clinics in a Low to Middle Income Country: a Randomised Controlled Trial (the IFAd Trial)

Background: Byamugisha et al. aimed to investigate the impact of blister packaging Iron and Folate on medication adherence and hemoglobin levels among pregnant women in a low to middle income country (Uganda).

Method: The study used a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design, “The IFAd Trial”, to assess the effectiveness of blister packaging. Adherence to medication was monitored through multiple measures, including self-reporting by the participants, pill counts, and electronic monitoring devices. Furthermore, hemoglobin levels were measured as an indicator of therapeutic effectiveness.

Results: The study revealed significant improvements in medication adherence among pregnant women who received blister-packaged Iron and Folate compared to those with conventional packaging. Additionally, hemoglobin levels showed a notable increase in the group using blister packaging, indicating better therapeutic outcomes.

Conclusion: Overall, the study suggests that blister packaging can positively impact medication adherence and therapeutic effectiveness among pregnant women, potentially leading to improved maternal and fetal health outcomes in low to middle income settings.