28 research outputs found
Improving Compliance with Helicobacter Pylori Eradication Therapy: When and How?
Compliance with therapy is the single most important factor in
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication. Poorer levels
of compliance with therapy are associated with significantly lower levels of
eradication. Numerous factors can contribute to achieving good levels of
compliance. These include the complexity and duration of treatment. It is also
important that the physician is motivated to ensure eradication is confirmed and
the patient is sufficiently informed to empower him or her to achieve high
levels of compliance. Compliance is also contingent on medication regimes that
are simple, safe, tolerable and efficacious. The opportunity to improve
compliance exists at every point of contact between the patient and the medical
services. Experts and opinion leaders in the field can play a role by ensuring
that physicians are educated and motivated enough to encourage and support
compliance with H. pylori eradication therapy. Both patients
and physicians need to be aware of the importance of the bacterium in causing
disease. The importance of the doctor—patient relationship is
paramount. Pragmatic strategies that may be of assistance may come in the form
of polypills, combined Blister Packs, adjuvant therapies and modified release
compounds. Colleagues such as pharmacists and nurse specialists can also play an
important role and should be actively engaged. Structured aftercare and follow
up offers the best chance for ensuring compliance and subsequent eradication of
the H. pylori pathogen