Original Articles Open access

Patient satisfaction and adherence to vitamin D supplementation: results from a nationwide survey in Italy

Authors

Published
30 September 2026
Section
Original Articles
DOI
10.4081/reumatismo.2026.2105

Abstract

Objective. The objective of the present study was to evaluate patient satisfaction and adherence to different vitamin D formulations and dosing regimens in a large Italian cohort of patients treated for osteoporosis or vitamin D deficiency.

Methods. We did a cross-sectional study; a questionnaire (FEDIOS Survey, version 3.2) was administered across multiple centers under FEDIOS patronage. Questions assessed socio-demographic data, vitamin D treatment characteristics, perceived convenience, tolerability, adherence (Morisky scale), and overall satisfaction.

Results. A total of 658 respondents (mean age 65.5±13.1 years; 86% women) completed the questionnaire. Most participants had a high school diploma (38%), and 96% were currently taking vitamin D, predominantly as liquid formulations (bottles 67%, ampoules 23%). The most frequent dosing was monthly (41%), followed by weekly (37%) and daily (19%). Laboratory confirmation of deficiency was obtained in 83% of cases; 49% were treated for osteoporosis. Only 14% reported difficulties with intake, most commonly problems opening ampoules (36%) or forgetting doses (33%). On a 7-point Likert scale, mean satisfaction scores were 5.74±1.08 for overall treatment satisfaction and 5.81±1.11 for willingness to continue treatment. The Morisky adherence score averaged 1.44 to 1.55 for most formulations, indicating moderate-to-high adherence without significant inter-group differences (p=0.78). However, monthly regimens, especially ampoules and bottles, were associated with significantly higher satisfaction for dosing frequency and continuation intention (p=0.017 and 0.018, Δ≈+9%). Global satisfaction was highest for monthly ampoules (6.08±0.82) and monthly tablets (6.18±0.91), and lowest for daily tablets (5.69±1.01).

Conclusions. In summary, vitamin D supplementation was generally well accepted among Italian patients, with a preference for monthly liquid formulations, perceived as more convenient and easier to manage. Simplified dosing schedules appear to enhance satisfaction and support sustained adherence.

Keywords

Ethics Approval

The study was conducted according to the protocol 1483CESC approved by the Ethics Committee of Verona, in accordance with the 1964 Helsinki Declaration and its later amendments or comparable ethical standards.

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