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Medication non-adherence: a role for the dental professional
1Orofacial Pain and Oral Medicine Center, Division of Periodontology, Diagnostic Sciences and Dental Hygiene, University of Southern California, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, USA.
The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association
|June 18, 2013
Summary
Rational non-adherence, where patients stop medication due to side effect fears like osteonecrosis of the jaw from bisphosphonates, is a growing concern. Dental professionals can play a key role in addressing this medication adherence challenge.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Patient Adherence
- Dental Medicine
Background:
- Medication non-adherence presents significant health and economic challenges.
- Rational non-adherence, driven by patient concerns about medication side effects, is increasingly prevalent.
- Osteoporosis medications, particularly bisphosphonates, are often discontinued due to fear of complications like osteonecrosis of the jaw.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the concept of rational non-adherence.
- To examine bisphosphonate use in osteoporosis patients and their reasons for discontinuation.
- To outline the potential role of dental professionals in improving medication adherence.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and conceptual discussion.
- Case exemplar analysis of osteoporosis patients and bisphosphonate therapy.
- Exploration of dental professional involvement in patient care and adherence.
Main Results:
- Fear of medication side effects, such as osteonecrosis of the jaw, is a primary driver of rational non-adherence in osteoporosis patients.
- Patients may rationally discontinue bisphosphonates based on perceived risks.
- Dental professionals are uniquely positioned to identify and address patient concerns regarding medication side effects.
Conclusions:
- Rational non-adherence is a critical factor influencing treatment outcomes, particularly in chronic conditions like osteoporosis.
- Interprofessional collaboration, involving dental professionals, is essential for managing medication adherence and mitigating risks associated with therapies like bisphosphonates.
- Strategies to improve communication and patient education are vital for enhancing medication adherence and patient safety.
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