Overcoming problems with adherence to osteoporosis medication.

Nonadherence to pharmacological treatment in osteoporosis is a well-recognized problem. As in other chronic diseases, adherence to osteoporosis treatment is poor, resulting in enormous burden on patients and healthcare resources. Most importantly, low adherence rates consistently result in increased rates of fractures. However, it seems that efforts to evaluate and improve rates of both compliance and persistence are increasing. The extension of dosing intervals may be an element, among others, allowing improvements in therapeutic adherence. Improved patient education, enhancing healthcare provider-patients interaction, taking into account patient's preferences and involving them in treatment decisions may improve adherence.