Compliance with therapy in children with respiratory diseases

Abstract

Compliance with medical treatment was evaluated in 89 children and adolescents with respiratory diseases using two methods of assessment: a double blinded covert recording of the use of an air compressor for nebulization of drugs and the determination of theophylline levels in serum. In the covert monitoring of inhalation the overall compliance with the prescribed medication was 47.6%. In the open randomized theophylline trial, 56%-71% of the patients (according to uncontrolled or controlled intake of the drug) received a dosage of theophylline which was too low to achieve a sufficient serum level in the range of 10-20 mg/l. This, however, was also due to the fact that in 72% of the cases physicians prescribed doses which were substantially below the recommended amount of drug according to age and weight. It is, therefore, concluded that compliance of medication is based on the patients adherence to the medication, to the efficacy of the drug itself and the attitude of the physician.

Nebulization Therapy for Asthma: A Practical Guide for the Busy Pediatrician

“…In the pediatric population, good technique and patient adherence to any inhalation device, whether a pMDI with spacer or a nebulizer, can be problematic, and ineffective medication is often due to poor technique. [92][93][94][95][96] To improve the adherence, it is important to take into consideration the device the parents and patient will prefer and how the device will fit their lifestyle. 97 In-office demonstration of proper nebulization technique to parents or other caregivers by office staff is essential to ensure optimal therapy.…”

Παράμετροι Συνταγογραφίας Δεδομένα Φαρμακοθεραπείας Και Ενημερωτική Παρέμβαση Στους Ασθενείς Της Κοινωνικής Πρόνοιας

“…Το πρόβλημα, ειδικά με τις συσκευές εισπνοών, απασχολεί πολύ τους ερευνητές. Σε μία ομάδα παιδιών σωστή χρήση των συσκευών εισπνοών έκανε το 47,6%(104). Μη έλεγχος του άσθματος πρέπει να ευαισθητοποιήσει τον γιατρό για την έρευνα πιθανότητας μη συμμόρφωσης(105).…”