Cure8 research brief
Medication adherence affects how well IBD maintenance treatment works. This study highlights the everyday challenges and beliefs that shape whether people stick with prescribed therapies, which can help clinicians and patients work together to improve adherence.
Adults living with IBD (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, IBD-U), clinicians who manage long-term IBD care, and caregivers supporting medication routines.
This qualitative study interviewed 15 adults with IBD (mostly ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s) to explore how they understand and manage medication adherence in daily life.
Participants described adherence as an ongoing negotiation influenced by their interpretation of symptoms, beliefs about treatment benefits versus side-effect concerns, and practical burdens of therapy.
Participants reported combining prescribed medications with lifestyle and dietary strategies, and said trusting communication, continuity of care, clear information, and shared decision-making helped them adhere. Uncertainty about disease activity and treatment burdens undermined adherence.
The authors conclude clinicians should acknowledge patients’ concerns and lifestyle strategies, use person-centred communication, set clear treatment goals, and engage in shared decision-making to support adherence.
This is a qualitative study based on interviews at a single gastroenterology clinic in Sweden (15 participants). It describes patient experiences and perceptions rather than measuring adherence rates or testing interventions.
Review the original publication for the complete reporting, methods, and context.
This Cure8 brief is based on source text from the linked article. Cure8 is informational only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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