Effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on the conduction of pharmacotherapy in elderly people with hypertension and diabetes treated at a Polyclinic in the state Pernambuco

Abstract

Objective: To describe the impacts of Covid-19 on the conduct of pharmacotherapy in older adults with hypertension and diabetes, seen at a polyclinic located in the state of Pernambuco, considering the characteristics of users and their pharmacological treatment. Methods: This is a descriptive study with a quantitative approach carried out in two stages. In the first stage, a retrospective analysis of the Horus System database was performed, to survey hypertensive and/or diabetic patients over 60 years old, registered in this system, taking into account the profiles of antihypertensive and antidiabetic drugs. In the second stage, interviews were conducted with pre-selected hypertensive and diabetic elderly through a convenience sample, according to data from the first stage report. Results: Of the 42 elderly interviewed, most were women (69.05%) and the predominant age group was between 70 and 79 years old (45.24%). Only 2.4% reported suspension of pharmacological treatment and most continued to receive medications at the polyclinic. The interviewees reported having received orientation from health professionals, mainly physicians and pharmacists. The elderly reported care for Covid-19 prevention and less than 20% were contaminated. Conclusion: The importance of adherence to pharmacological treatment, as well as the support of health care professionals, to minimize the problems caused by Covid-19 in the elderly was highlighted.