Low persistence with oral biphosphonate treatment in postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Background: Osteoporotic fractures are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. It is recognized that persistence with medication is crucial to reach optimal clinical outcomes. We aimed to estimate the persistence level to weekly and monthly oral bisphosphonates (OBP) in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) over 24 months from therapy initiation in a population-based setting.

Primary non-adherence in Portugal: findings and implications.

Background: Portugal is currently facing a serious economic and financial crisis, which is dictating some important changes in the health care sector. Some of these measures may potentially influence patients' access to medication and consequently adherence, which will ultimately impact on health status, especially in chronic patients.

Aims: This study aimed at providing a snapshot of adherence in patients with chronic conditions in Portugal between March and April 2012.