Which patients are most at risk for experiencing polypharmacy issues?

Older adults are most at risk for experiencing polypharmacy issues due to several factors. As people age, they often develop multiple chronic health conditions that require ongoing treatment with various medications. This increases the likelihood of being prescribed multiple drugs, which can lead to complex medication regimens. Additionally, older adults may have altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics resulting from age-related physiological changes, making them more susceptible to the side effects and interactions of medications.

Furthermore, older adults often see multiple healthcare providers, which can result in overlapping prescriptions and an increased risk of medication errors. This demographic may also be more likely to take over-the-counter medications and supplements that can further complicate their medication management. Awareness of these issues is critical for prescribers to ensure that the benefits of therapy outweigh the risks of polypharmacy, promoting better health outcomes in this vulnerable population.