Abstract

PREVALENCE AND RISK REDUCTION OF POLYPHARMACY: OVER THE AGE OF 25 YEARS

Yellamraju Venkata Hari Shankar*, Bandaru Madhu Harsha, Bandi Ravi Teja
Reddy, Kathi Vara Prasad, Nallani Venkata Rama Rao and Nadendla Ramarao

Abstract

The concurrent use of multiple medications by a patient to treat usually coexisting conditions and which may result in adverse drug interactions is called as Polypharmacy. The term “polypharmacy” was originally coined to refer to certain issues related to multiple drug consumption and excessive drug use. It is arguably one of the most pressing prescribing issues as the percentage of the population described as elderly is growing, and a higher prevalence of multiple, chronic disease states must be managed concurrently. Among older adults, polypharmacy is a common problem. Currently, 44% of men and 57% of women older than age 65 take five or more medications per week; about 12% of both men and women take 10 or more medications per week. These agents include both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) preparations. The more medicines a patient takes, the higher their risk of adverse events, including serious ones, from these combinations, rather than from the underlying illnesses. Healthcare providers must evaluate and balance a drug’s potential adverse effects against its potential benefits to identify the appropriate approach for an older patient. Advances in information technology, such as electronic prescribing, electronic medical records, and electronic laboratory records, are innovative ways to decrease the risk of adverse drug reactions and interactions. The aim of the present study is to implement clinical pharmacy services to the patients under polypharmacy. We also aim to provide information about the disease, drugs, & DRPs. Unforeseen risks could be minimised if they are identified in time.

Keywords: Polypharmacy, Over the Counter Drugs, Electronic Medical Records, Drug Related Problems.