Managing the Risks of Polypharmacy in Long-Term Care

The use of multiple medications by a single patient is a growing concern in long-term care. Though often necessary to manage chronic conditions, polypharmacy can lead to significant health risks when not properly managed. 

This issue is especially critical among older adults, who are more likely to have complex medical needs requiring various prescriptions. 

What is Polypharmacy?

Polypharmacy is typically defined as the regular use of five or more medications at the same time. While this may be medically appropriate for individuals managing multiple chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis, it also carries significant risks when not closely monitored. 

Problems often arise when medications are added over time without reevaluating their necessity, or when prescriptions are filled by multiple providers who may not be aware of a patient’s full medication profile. In these cases, the chances of harmful drug interactions, duplicative therapies, or adverse side effects increase substantially.

Polypharmacy in the elderly is especially common, as older adults are more likely to have complex medical needs and see several healthcare professionals. According to the AARP, 30% of adults 40-plus take medications at polypharmacy levels. With age, the body’s ability to metabolize drugs changes, making seniors more sensitive to the effects and side effects of certain medications.

Understanding Polypharmacy Risks

The risks associated with polypharmacy are significant and often underestimated. An article by the National Library of Medicine states that “elderly patients taking at least five medications are at increased risk of mild cognitive impairment and dementia.”

Polypharmacy risks also extend beyond physical health. The AARP recently reported on the connection between social isolation and increased medication use, noting that seniors who are lonely may report more symptoms and receive prescriptions that may not be strictly necessary. This creates a cycle where medication becomes a substitute for more holistic care, further exacerbating mental and physical health concerns.

The Role of Long-Term Care Providers

Long-term care providers play a central role in managing polypharmacy and the elderly to prevent medication-related harm. Unfortunately, the nature of long-term care can make consistent medication management a challenge when there are frequent transitions between providers and shifts in resident health. 

As noted by Provider Magazine, there are a few key strategies to reduce polypharmacy:

• Understand each resident’s health profile: Ensure staff know every resident’s conditions and the purpose behind each medication to help identify unnecessary or inappropriate prescriptions.
• Engage residents and families: Proactively initiate conversations to understand preferences and concerns.
• Partner with a long-term care pharmacy: Collaborate with a pharmacy team like Prime Care Pharmacy to support safer prescribing practices.

While many facilities struggle with outdated medication lists, poor communication between prescribers, and limited time for in-depth medication reviews, it is important to break this cycle by pursuing a proactive, team-based approach that includes pharmacy partners from the beginning.

Strategies for Safer Medication Management

Reducing polypharmacy risks starts with regular medication reviews and deprescribing where appropriate. Education is also key, both for caregivers and for residents themselves. 

At Prime Care Pharmacy, we support long-term care facilities by providing clear, clinically informed guidance on medication management. 

Interested in working with Prime Care Pharmacy? Connect with our team at primecareltc.com/contact.