Polypharmacy

dosages that are too high or too low;

medications incorrectly prescribed or filled; or

herbal medications interacting with physician-prescribed
medications.

Polypharmacy can result in an adverse drug event, yet
many such episodes can be prevented. If you’re
concerned that you may be at risk for polypharmacy, ask
your physician or pharmacist for a complete medication
review
What Is Polypharmacy?
Tips for taking your medicines…
Don’t stop taking your medication without checking with
your doctor.

Don’t skip a dose, even if you are feeling better.

Ask your doctor what to do if you miss a dose.  Never
double to make up for a missed dose.

Notify your doctor of any side effects.

Take your pills at the same time every day.

Check with your pharmacist or doctor before taking any
over-the-counter medicine.

Store medications at room temperature, away from
moisture and sunlight.

Do not store medications in the bathroom or car.

Fill all prescriptions at one pharmacy to prevent receiving
drugs that should not go together.

Invest in a medication reminder box if you are taking
multiple medications or need to be reminded if you have
or have not already taken your medications.

Keep a current list of any allergies and all medications
you take routinely in your wallet or purse (including any
herbal or over the counter medications).

You will be given specific instructions on the medications
prescribed for you.
Polypharmacy is the use of multiple
prescriptive and over-the-counter drugs
and is typically defined as the concurrent
use of 5 or more drugs by the same
patient.  Polypharmacy results in a higher
risk of adverse effects, drug interactions,
and reduced compliance. Polypharmacy
may be complicated by the following:
Polypharmacy
For additional information on "Proper Use of Medicines"
please visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration by
clicking on:  www.fda.gov