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Compliance with pharmacologic therapy for osteoporosis
Robert A Yood1, Srinivas Emani, John I Reed
1Division of Rheumatology, Fallon Clinic, 425 N. Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
Summary
Osteoporosis treatment compliance with estrogen (ERT) and bisphosphonates was similar in routine care. Achieving over 66% compliance is crucial for optimal bone density improvement in osteoporosis patients.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Geriatrics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Limited data exists on osteoporosis pharmacologic therapy compliance in real-world settings.
- Osteoporosis management relies on patient adherence to prescribed treatments for efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate compliance with osteoporosis pharmacologic therapy initiated in usual care.
- To assess the relationship between compliance and bone mineral density (BMD) changes.
Main Methods:
- 176 women with osteoporosis, previously untreated, were evaluated.
- Compliance was measured by prescription refill rates over a mean of 590 days.
- Bone mineral density (BMD) changes were assessed in a subset of patients.
Main Results:
- Compliance rates for bisphosphonates and estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) were similar (approx. 70%).
- Both bisphosphonates and ERT showed comparable improvements in spine BMD.
- Compliance below 66% was associated with significantly less improvement in spine bone density compared to higher compliance.
Conclusions:
- Pharmacologic therapy compliance for osteoporosis in routine practice is similar for ERT and bisphosphonates.
- Adherence to osteoporosis treatment is critical, with <66% compliance leading to suboptimal bone density gains.