Identifying and improving non-adherence in bipolar disorders.
OBJECTIVE
To review the definition of non-adherence, its clinical and economic impact and identify its role and impact in clinical practice.


METHODS
A selective review of the literature as conducted of articles and literature known to the authors.


RESULTS
There is a paucity of studies examining specifically treatment non-adherence and its consequences in bipolar disorder. Few studies have systematically examined ways in which treatment adherence can impact treatment and improve outcome.


CONCLUSIONS
Non-adherence is common in the management of bipolar disorder. Clinicians and Researchers alike need to remain alert and be aware of issues related to non-adherence--in particular suicide. Like other course-modifiers non-adherence has to be considered, sought and addressed, and this is perhaps best done by including psychoeducation in routine clinical care.
Colom
F
F
Bipolar Disorders Program, Institut d'Investigacions Biomédiques Agustí Pi Sunyer, Barcelona Stanley Foundation Center Barcelona, Spain.
Vieta
E
E
Tacchi
M J
MJ
Sánchez-Moreno
J
J
Scott
J
J
D001294:Attitude to Health; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000191:economics; D005260:Female; D017048:Health Care Costs; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000523:psychology*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012307:Risk Factors; D055502:Secondary Prevention