OBJECTIVES : To investigate the adherence and persistence with antiplatelet agents and their associated factors among patients with new episode of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in Tianjin, China.

METHODS : Data were obtained from Tianjin Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance database (2011-2015). Adult patients who initiated antiplatelet agents within 30 days after discharge with a hospitalization for ACS (index hospitalization) during 2012.01.01-2014.12.31, and had continuous enrollment during 12-month pre- (baseline) and 12-month post- (follow-up) index hospitalization were included. Patients who had previous evidence of ACS or prescription of antiplatelet agents during baseline period or had major adverse cardiovascular events within the initial 30 days after discharge were excluded. Patients who had a ≥80% proportion of days covered (PDC) were considered adherent, while patients who had no gaps of ≥30 days in antiplatelet therapy were considered persistent. Logistic and Cox models were used to explore the associated factors for adherence and persistence, respectively.

RESULTS : CONCLUSIONS : Adherence and persistence with antiplatelet agents was unsatisfactory among patients with new episode of ACS in Tianjin, China. Male, receiving PCI and longer stay during index hospitalization were associated with better adherence/persistence.