Medication Adherence and Health-Seeking Behaviour in Typhoid Fever Treatment: Insights from Kaduna Metropolis, Nigeria

Medication nonadherence and inconsistent health-seeking behaviors significantly hinder the effective treatment of typhoid fever, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey of 175 respondents revealed significant medication nonadherence, with 88% reporting missed doses, primarily due to forgetfulness and financial constraints. Chemists were the most utilized source of medication (60%), surpassing pharmacies and healthcare centers, while 30% of respondents relied on herbal remedies either exclusively or alongside orthodox medicine. Adherence improved post-hospital visits, with 65.7% reporting no missed doses. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, including patient education, regulation of informal healthcare providers, and technology-driven adherence support to enhance treatment outcomes and mitigate antimicrobial resistance.