Who is at risk for polypharmacy?

elderly couple with multiple pill bottles with Who's at Risk title

 

If you are taking one or more prescription drugs as well as over the counter remedies to treat disease, sickness or for prevention then you could be at risk for unwanted drug interactions. Combining drugs should be monitored by your doctor carefully as the benefits far outweigh the risk. If you feel that you are at risk, then talk to your doctor immediately. Your doctor will work with you to give you the best health care and can provide you with a treatment plan that will reduce your risk of drug interactions. 

Over the counter (OTC) doesn’t mean that the product is safe for you! Because you can’t be sure how these drugs will interact with you or what you are already taking, please talk to your doctor about any OTC products you take.

 

Are you at RISK?

If you are taking prescription drugs and answer yes to any of the questions below then you could be at risk for polypharmacy...

  • Have you recently been hospitalized?
  • Do you take herbs, vitamins, or OTC products?
  • Do you have multiple chronic conditions?
  • Do you have multiple doctors?
  • Do you use different pharmacies to fill your prescriptions?
  • Do you have poor eyesight or hearing?
  • Do you live alone?
  • Do you sometimes forget to take your medication?