Polypharmacy refers to multiple medications being used concurrently, either prescribed or bought over the counter (OTC).
An overview of polypharmacy or the use of two or more medicines together, and some dos and don'ts for taking the medication, from the brochure "Polypharmacy by SingHealth, Ministry of Health, and National Healthcare Group.
What is polypharmacy?
Polypharmacy is defined as the concurrent use of multiple medicines either dispensed according to a prescription or bought over-the-counter.
Possible problems of polypharmacy
Using multiple medicines concurrently can lead to problems such as adverse drug reactions, wastage, improper use, under-use or over-use of medicines.
Who is at risk?
If you are aged 65 or older, you may be taking one or more medicines prescribed to you by your doctor, as well as products that you can buy over-the-counter (OTC) without a prescription. While such medicines can help maintain health and prevent further illness, taking combinations of drugs means that you can be at risk for unwanted drug interactions, which may result in adverse drug reactions. If you take medicines prescribed by doctors and answer ‘yes’ to any of the questions below, you can be at increased risk.
What should I do if I am at risk?
As long as your doctor monitors your medicines carefully, the benefits can far outweigh the risks. However, if you feel that you are taking too many drugs, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. There are many ways that you and your healthcare providers can work together to reduce or avoid the risks. Carefully follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist.
Some simple tips for taking your medication
I am taking several medicines. How can I remember to take them all?
If you take several medications daily you need to have a medication schedule. This will allow you to take your medicines at regular intervals so that the amount of medicine in your body is maintained appropriately. Ask your pharmacist to help you to prepare a medication schedule and update it whenever your medicines change. It is helpful to have a memory aid, for example, a pill-box with easy-to-open compartments for each day of the week and time it has to be taken. You may want to purchase a product that uses an electronic alarm such as a buzzer, or a flashing light, or a product that vibrates when it is time to take your medicine. Ask your pharmacist for help in choosing the appropriate type of device for your needs.
How should I store my medicines?
You should keep your medicines in their original containers where possible and store them in a cool and dry place.
Ref: U11