Polypharmacy and Adverse Drug Reactions in Elderly Patients

Abstract

Polypharmacy, which involves us of multiple medications is a growing concern in elderly populations worldwide. This practice is often clinically necessitated, but, on the other hand, the likelihood of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), drug-drug interactions, non-adherence to medications, and functional decline is quite high. ADRs rank among the most frequent causes of hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality in the elderly, whose changed pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics make them more susceptible. The paper discusses the complicated etiology of polypharmacy, the mechanisms and manifestations of ADRs in gerontology, and the discursive analysis of the deep clinical, economic, and humanistic implications. Moreover, it considers the overall mitigation strategies, with a heavy focus on deprescribing, technological assistance, the interdisciplinary care model, and systemic changes. The conclusion reiterates that polypharmacy and ADRs are not only a pharmacological problem but also a key requirement towards delivering the elderly with safe, effective, and person-centered care.