Polypharmacy: Definitions, Factors, Risks, and Status in Saudi Arabia
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- Category: Vol. 88, December 2020
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Polypharmacy: Definitions, Factors, Risks, and Status in Saudi Arabia
Abstract
Aim: This study aims to investigate the definitions of poly-pharmacy in the literature and differentiate between appropriate and inappropriate polypharmacy among the elderly. Methods: A systematic review of existing literature was conducted to identify various definitions of polypharmacy and their clinical applications. The study also examined risk fac-tors, assessment tools, and deprescribing approaches to manage polypharmacy effectively. Results: The review revealed that polypharmacy is com-monly defined numerically, with five or more concurrent med-ications being the most frequent threshold. However, this defi-nition often lacks clinical context. Appropriate polypharmacy, which involves the use of necessary and beneficial medications, was distinguished from inappropriate polypharmacy, which in-volves unnecessary or harmful medications. The review also highlighted the negative consequences of polypharmacy, such as adverse drug events and increased healthcare utilization. Discussion: The findings emphasize the need for a more nuanced definition of polypharmacy that considers the appro-priateness of medication regimens. Effective management of polypharmacy requires comprehensive assessment tools and patient-centered deprescribing strategies. In Saudi Arabia, the high prevalence of polypharmacy among the elderly under-scores the need for improved medication management practices to enhance patient outcomes.