What is the main risk associated with polypharmacy in elderly patients?

The main risk associated with polypharmacy in elderly patients is the increased likelihood of side effects. As individuals age, their bodies undergo various physiological changes that can alter the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of medications. This means that the way drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated can differ significantly in older adults compared to younger populations.

When multiple medications are prescribed simultaneously, there is a higher probability of drug interactions, which can exacerbate the side effects of one or more of the medications being taken. Additionally, older patients may have a diminished ability to tolerate certain side effects because of comorbidities or age-related physiological decline, making them more vulnerable to adverse reactions.

Polypharmacy can also lead to confusion regarding medication regimens, which may result in missed doses or incorrect administration, further increasing the risk of side effects and complications. Therefore, the potential for harm due to polypharmacy necessitates careful medication management and regular review of patient medications to ensure that the benefits outweigh the risks.