Less is More: Medicines that Require Less Frequent Administration Improve Adherence, but Are They Better?

Excerpt

In recent years there has been an increase in the availability of medicines that require less frequent administration. Examples are diverse, and include once-weekly and once-monthly bisphosphonates for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis; long-acting transdermal, implantable and injectable hormonal contraceptives; and fortnightly injectable risperidone for the management of schizophrenia. Medicines that require less frequent administration are more acceptable to patients and consequently result in better adherence. However, their use should be supported by evidence on whether the enhanced adherence translates to improved benefits in routine practice, and whether any such improvements justify the additional cost that may result. …