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Published on: December 4, 2020
Adherence to antibiotic prophylaxis in children with vesicoureteral reflux
Esequiel Rodriguez1, Dana A Weiss, Hillary L Copp
1UCSF Department of Urology, University of California, 400 Parnassus Ave, A633 San Francisco, CA 94143-0738, USA.
Insights
Adherence to continuous antibiotic prophylaxis (CAP) for pediatric vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is crucial. Poor adherence can lead to kidney infections, scarring, and antibiotic resistance, underscoring the need for improved strategies.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) affects 1% of children, increasing risk of pyelonephritis and renal scarring.
- Continuous antibiotic prophylaxis (CAP) is a common treatment to prevent infections in children with VUR.
- Limited data exists on adherence to long-term CAP in pediatric VUR patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review medication adherence in children with VUR.
- To discuss the consequences of nonadherence to CAP.
- To propose strategies for improving adherence to CAP.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on medication adherence in pediatric VUR.
- Analysis of consequences of nonadherence to CAP.
- Discussion of potential interventions to enhance adherence.
Main Results:
- Nonadherence to CAP may negate therapeutic benefits and lead to adverse outcomes.
- Consequences include treatment changes, antibiotic resistance, and compromised research.
- Strategies to improve adherence are needed for effective VUR management.
Conclusions:
- Improving adherence to CAP is essential for preventing complications in pediatric VUR.
- Healthcare providers, researchers, and communities must address adherence challenges.
- Further research and interventions are required to optimize CAP adherence.
Abstract:
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) affects approximately 1% of children and may predispose a child with a bladder infection to develop pyelonephritis and renal scarring. To prevent these potential sequelae, one accepted treatment option for VUR includes low-dose continuous antibiotic prophylaxis (CAP) to maintain urine sterility until the condition resolves. Despite the widespread use of CAP, little data exists regarding adherence to long-term antibiotic therapy. Not only will poor adherence to CAP potentially preclude the intended benefit, but also nonadherence with antibiotic regimens may carry untoward effects including unnecessary treatment changes for presumed antibiotic failure, emergence of resistant organisms, and compromised clinical trial outcomes. We present an overview of medication adherence in children with VUR, discuss possible consequences of nonadherence to antibiotic prophylaxis, and suggest ways to improve adherence. We raise awareness of issues related to nonadherence relevant to healthcare providers, investigators, and the community.
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