What effect can polypharmacy have on patients?

Polypharmacy, which refers to the concurrent use of multiple medications by a patient, particularly older adults or those with chronic conditions, significantly increases the risk of drug interactions. Each additional medication raises the likelihood that drugs may affect each other's metabolism, efficacy, or side effects. These interactions can lead to adverse effects, decreased therapeutic effects, or increased toxicity.

The complexity of managing many medications can make it challenging for patients to adhere to treatment regimens, ultimately complicating their care further. Therefore, while polypharmacy may initially seem beneficial due to the potential for more comprehensive treatment, it is critical to recognize the associated dangers, especially regarding drug interactions, which can severely impact patient safety and health outcomes.