A novel approach to monitoring adherence to preventive therapy for tuberculosis in adolescence

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the usefulness of a microelectronic tablet- dispenser for monitoring adherence to preventive therapy for tuberculosis infection in adolescents. Methodology: Twenty-one patients with positive Mantoux tests were treated with isoniazid (INH), dispensed in a microelectronic tablet-dispenser that recorded the date, time and duration that the container was opened. Other measures of adherence included attendance at clinic, patient self-report, tablet count, and measurement of urinary INH metabolites. Results: The mean adherence rates were: 83% using attendance at clinic, 91% using tablet counts, 79% using urine assays, and 66% using the electronic tablet-dispenser. Self-repo..