We evaluated knowledge about prescribed medications and compliance with taking those medications in 96 South East Asian refugees of different ethnic backgrounds seen in a primary care clinic. Two hundred and thirty (88%) of 262 prescribed medications were currently being taken by the patients. Although 97% of the medications were either named or described correctly, the correct rationale for taking the medication was known for only 79% and the correct dosage regimen for only 63%. Thirty–two (33%) of the 96 patients were not taking one or more of their prescribed medications, 17 (18%) were taking one or more medications not prescribed, 5 (5%) were taking duplicate forms of the same medication, and 4 (4%) were taking a medication that had been discontinued by the clinic provider. Seventy–two (75%) patients were taking one or more medications at an incorrect dose. Only 12 (12%) patients were fully compliant with all prescribed medications. We conclude that knowledge about and compliance with medications is a major problem among South East Asian patients attending a primary care refugee clinic. Copyright © 1993, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved

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