Observance, adherence, compliance .... different words for better therapeutic efficacy

Improving observance: For antiretroviral treatments including protease inhi bitors, twice daily regimens have been tried instead of the tid protocols. Available data are insufficient to determine the effect on observance. Verifying observance: Indinavir assays in the hair of treated patients have shown that the indinavir level is higher in responders than in non respond ers. Better understanding of prescription modalities: This can be a very useful tool in helping the patient understand his/her treatment and its duration. Presse Med 1998;27:13-4 (C) 1998 Masson, Paris.