Drug safety
If you’re taking multiple medications at the same time, you should know that certain combinations may cause unwanted and even harmful side effects.1
Adults over age 65 are more likely to use a combination of over-the-counter and prescription medications to treat multiple conditions. Taking 5 or more medications is generally referred to as “polypharmacy.”2 This can lead to a higher risk of experiencing harmful side effects from medications.
Potential problems associated with taking multiple medications include:3
- Increased risk of falls
- Loss of appetite
- Confusion
- Physical weakness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Helpful tips that may help you manage your medications:
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist what any new medication is for
- Try to use only 1 pharmacy, and keep your pharmacist informed about all your prescription medicines and any over-the-counter medications you are taking
- Pay attention to possible side effects and talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns
- Store your medications safely and discard unused doses
- Do not share your medications with anyone
- Take medications only as prescribed
Sources
- “Polypharmacy Management in Older Patients,” National Library of Medicine, last accessed July 7, 2023, , opens new window
- “Polypharmacy Management in Older Patients.”
- “Polypharmacy,” University of Florida Health, last accessed July 7, 2023, , opens new window
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