OPM - Polypharmacy

Question 1

what is the definition of polypharmacy

Answer 1

5+ drugs

Question 2

when can overprescribing occur

Answer 2

a better alternative is not given
a condition changes and the medicine is no longer needed
Transfer of Care
Reflex prescribing
Lack of shared decision making

Question 3

what are the main negative impacts of polypharmacy

Answer 3

1. Reduced adherence
2. Adverse drug reactions
3. Increased health care utilisation
4. Falls
5. Cognitive impairment
6. mortality