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Managing Polypharmacy: Optimizing Treatment and Enhancing Therapeutic Adherence in Geriatric Patients

An older Hispanic man sitting at a kitchen table, surrounded by medication bottles and pill organizers. He is wearing reading glasses and carefully reviewing a medication list, reflecting responsibility in managing polypharmacy. The scene conveys a warm and inviting atmosphere, with natural light streaming through the window, emphasizing the importance of therapeutic adherence and medication review in geriatrics.

Polypharmacy is an increasingly common phenomenon among the geriatric population, particularly in those with multimorbidity. This term refers to the simultaneous use of multiple medications, which can lead to drug interactions and increase the risk of adverse effects. In this context, therapeutic adherence and medication review become crucial aspects for optimizing treatment and improving the quality of life for geriatric patients.

Diving Deeper into Polypharmacy Management

Managing polypharmacy in older adults requires a systematic and consultative approach to identify high-risk medications and issues related to pharmacotherapy. According to a recent study, polypharmacy is associated with an increase in hospitalizations and healthcare costs [1]. Modern geriatrics emphasizes the importance of deprescribing, especially in palliative and long-term care, to reduce the use of high-risk medications such as opioids and benzodiazepines [2].

Furthermore, comprehensive geriatric assessment is essential for identifying geriatric syndromes and potential intervention targets. Rapid assessment tools, such as the FRAIL scale, enable physicians to objectively recognize frail individuals and adjust treatments accordingly [3]. The implementation of polypharmacy management programs in primary care has been shown to improve patient safety, with pharmacists and primary care physicians being the main providers of these programs [4].

Conclusions

Optimizing treatments in older adults is an ongoing challenge that requires a multidisciplinary approach. Medication review and therapeutic adherence are essential components to minimize the risks associated with polypharmacy. Collaboration among physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals is crucial to develop personalized care plans that prioritize quality of life and patient safety. As the population ages, implementing effective strategies for managing polypharmacy becomes increasingly urgent.

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Created 13/1/2025