The relationship between clinical outcomes and medication adherence in difficult-to-control asthma.

Journal article

Medication non-adherence and the clinical implications in difficult-to-control asthma were audited. Prescription issue data from 115 patients identified sub-optimal adherence (<80%) in 65% of patients on inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) or combined ICS/long-acting β2 agonist (LABA). In those using separate ICS and LABA, adherence to LABA (50%) was significantly better than to ICS (14.3%). Patients with sub-optimal ICS adherence had reduced FEV(1) and higher sputum eosinophil counts. Adherence...

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Authors: Murphy, A; Proeschal, A; Brightling, C; Wardlaw, A; Pavord, I

• Journal: Thorax
• Volume: 67
• Issue: 8
• Pages: 751-753
• Publication date: 2012-08-01
• DOI: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2011-201096
• EISSN: 1468-3296
• ISSN: 0040-6376
• Language: English
• Keywords: Medication Adherence; Adult; Treatment Outcome; Adrenergic beta-2 Receptor Agonists; Drug Therapy, Combination; Forced Expiratory Volume; Male; Anti-Asthmatic Agents; Medical Audit; Humans; Female; Asthma; Glucocorticoids; Administration, Inhalation; Delivery of Health Care; Drug Administration Schedule; Middle Aged