A bibliometric analysis and mapping of global research trends in antihypertensive medication adherence (1975–2024)

Abstract Background Hypertension, a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, has increased dramatically over the decades. It can be mitigated with proper medication utilization and lifestyle modifications. Adherence to antihypertensive medication plays a significant role in reducing severe complications and improving the overall quality of life of people living with hypertension. This study was conducted to assess the global research output and trends in antihypertensive medication adherence. Methods The study utilized the Scopus database for bibliometric analysis. The keywords related to antihypertensive medication adherence were searched from the database’s inception to 21st December 2024. The retrieved data were analysed using VOSviewer, Biblioshiny and QGIS 3.30.1. The bibliometric maps and indicators were presented based on publication and funding source, most contributed countries and authors, keyword co-occurrence, and other relevant and important indicators. Results In total, 3497 documents specifically related to antihypertensive medication adherence were utilized and they were identified from 1975 to 2024. The publication’s annual growth rate was identified as 8.65%. The USA (1144, 33%), the UK (269, 8%), and Germany (246, 7%) are the leading contributors to antihypertensives adherence research. Schmieder R.E was found to be the top published author in this domain. The Journal of Hypertension was identified as the most published source, while National Institute of Health (NIH) revealed as the top funding body supporting antihypertensives adherence research. Conclusions Research on antihypertensive medication adherence was largely contributed by developed countries, especially dominated by the USA in most of the indicators. As the contribution from developing countries is limited, LMICs must be prioritized with collaborative research and capacity building to strengthen this adherence research. These efforts gradually help countries to generate context-specific evidence to improve adherence to antihypertensive medications thereby reducing the global burden of hypertension.