What is meant by polypharmacy?

Polypharmacy refers to the concurrent use of multiple medications by a patient, which is particularly common among elderly individuals. This phenomenon can arise from various factors, including the presence of multiple chronic conditions that necessitate different treatments. As patients age, they often accumulate prescriptions from various healthcare providers, which can lead to complexities in medication management, increased potential for adverse drug interactions, and difficulties in adherence.

The term is particularly significant because it highlights the challenges of managing the healthcare of older adults who may experience both the benefits and risks associated with taking several medications. Understanding polypharmacy is crucial for healthcare professionals to ensure safe prescribing practices and effective patient care, aiming to reduce unnecessary medications or optimize existing therapies to improve patient outcomes.