Dosing frequencies in general practice--Whose decision and why?
BACKGROUND
Little is known about patient preference for dosing frequency (daily, weekly or monthly). Patient preferences and attitudes among women over 60 years of age were studied. Condition, medication experience and perceived control were assessed against preference.


METHODS
One hundred and seven Australian general practitioners each recruited approximately 10 patients within three categories: those with preventable conditions (prevention of osteoporotic fracture), other chronic conditions, and acute or no conditions.


RESULTS
While most patients (67%) preferred starting medications daily, differences were observed between weekly and monthly preference. Chronic/acute groups and those experienced in daily/intermittent medication preferred starting and continuing monthly. Experience of weekly preventive medication resulted in a preference for weekly dosing. Those women with more perceived control of decision making had a preference for monthly dosing.


CONCLUSIONS
Patients prefer dosing schedules they have experienced. Condition type and perceived control in decision making also affect preferences. This study provides the first evidence about how patients determine preferences in dosing frequencies. It can assist GPs in their medication choice and patient education.
Saltman
Deborah C
DC
University of Sydney, New South Wales. rosie@gp.med.usyd.edu.au
Sayer
Geoffrey P
GP
O'Dea
Natalie A
NA
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D050071:Bone Density Conservation Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D003657:Decision Making; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D015663:Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal / Q000188:drug therapy*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D050071:Bone Density Conservation Agents