Polypharmacy

Polypharmacy is the concurrent use of multiple medications by a patient, especially when too many forms of medication are used by a patient, i.e., more than are medically necessary. Healthcare providers, including doctors and pharmacists, often use these terms when they refer to the increasing number of medications used by elderly patients (65 years and older), and more generally in any patient.

Definition

The term polypharmacy lacks a standard definition, as there are multiple different descriptions. Some definitions focus on the process of prescribing, while others focus on the impact of taking multiple medications. Simultaneously, the numerical thresholds used vary in the literature, with ranges from two or three to 11 or more.

Prevalence

The prevalence of polypharmacy is high among the elderly, with estimates ranging from 40% to 80%. The prevalence of polypharmacy is also increasing over time. In a study of elderly patients in Sweden, the prevalence of polypharmacy increased from 44% in 2005 to 58% in 2014.

Risks

Polypharmacy is associated with an increased risk of adverse events, including falls, delirium, and adverse drug reactions. It is also associated with increased healthcare costs and a higher risk of hospitalization.

Management

The management of polypharmacy involves regular review of the patient's medications, with the aim of reducing the number of unnecessary medications. This process is known as deprescribing.

See also

• Deprescribing
• Adverse drug reaction
• Geriatrics

Polypharmacy Resources
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