Compliance for Tuberculosis Treatment

Tuberculosis is a highly infectious disease that kills nearly 2 million people worldwide each year, according to the Mayo Clinic. Adherence to the prescribed treatment regimen is vital to both the health of the patient and to minimizing the spread of the disease.

Treatment

• Treatment consists of a combination of several antibiotics that need to be taken throughout the day, usually for a period of six months, possibly longer for those with immune disorders such as AIDS, according to Medline Plus.

Dangers of Non-Compliance to Patient

• Those who stop taking their medication before the disease is under control risk creating drug-resistant strains of tuberculosis that can be very difficult to treat and can cause permanent lung damage, the CDC warns.

Dangers of Non-Compliance to the Public

• If the infection is not properly treated, the patient risks spreading the disease to others through exposure to droplets from coughing, possibly introducing new resistant strains, says the CDC.

Direct Observed Therapy (DOT)

• Patients at risk of noncompliance may be directly observed by a health-care professional at a clinic or other medical setting to ensure they are taking the proper medications on schedule, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Self-directed Compliance

• Patients not under observation will need to monitor their own therapy. The CDC recommends sticking to a routine, using a weekly pill dispenser and enlisting family or friends to help with reminders.