POLYPHARMACY IN OLDER ADULTS

Öz

Objective: With the increase in the elderly population, chronic disease prevalence, and life expectancy, medication use among older adults has risen significantly. This situation has led to the growing problem of polypharmacy, which poses serious health risks in geriatric individuals. Materials and Methods: This study addresses polypharmacy in older individuals through an evaluation of contributing factors and clinical consequences. Inappropriate medication use is assessed based on internationally recognized tools such as the STOPP/START and TIME criteria. Emphasis is placed on regular medication reviews and multidisciplinary healthcare approaches. Results: Polypharmacy, generally defined as the use of five or more medications, is commonly caused by multiple physician follow-ups, guideline-based accumulation of treatments over time, and the use of over-the-counter drugs and herbal products. It increases the risk of drug-drug interactions and adverse drug reactions, resulting in falls, confusion, hospitalization, and higher mortality. Additionally, polypharmacy is strongly linked with geriatric syndromes such as frailty, cognitive impairment, dementia development, nutritional deficiencies, and reduced independence in daily activities. Conclusion: Preventing inappropriate medication use in older adults requires careful evaluation of long-term drug therapies, particularly medications with anticholinergic effects. Regular medication review, deprescribing when necessary, and patient-centered care are essential for rational drug use. A multidisciplinary team involving physicians, pharmacists, and nurses is crucial for minimizing the negative effects of polypharmacy and improving treatment safety and quality of life in elderly individuals.

Anahtar Kelimeler

• Polypharmacy
• Aging
• Rational use of medicines
• Geriatric syndromes

Kaynakça

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