Polypharmacy: why taking multiple medicines needs close monitoring
Polypharmacy, the regular use of five or more medications, is a growing health concern that requires careful monitoring to avoid adverse drug interactions. Experts emphasize that while complex regimens are sometimes necessary for chronic conditions, they must be regularly reviewed for efficacy and safety.
Why it matters
Highlights a critical public health issue regarding medication management for aging populations and those with chronic illnesses.
Deepina Pal, 26, has been living with chronic kidney disease since she was 16 and has been on dialysis for nine years. She takes about 10–12 different kinds of medicines every day for multiple autoimmune and other chronic conditions, including medicines for blood pressure, cholesterol, thyroid and heart conditions, as well as migraine and other problems. Some need to be taken three times a day.
She sets alarms and records her medicines on her phone. When she was first prescribed medication for blood pressure, she became extremely drowsy and slept for long periods. Her family later understood that her blood pressure was falling. For people on dialysis, regular blood tests can lead to changes in medication.
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