Polypharmacy

Definition

Polypharmacy is the concurrent use of multiple medications by a patient. It is common in older adults and can complicate nutritional status and hematologic health due to drug-nutrient interactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Polypharmacy increases the risk of adverse drug reactions, which can impact nutrient absorption and metabolism.
2. Certain medications used in polypharmacy can affect blood clotting mechanisms, influencing hematologic health.
3. Nutritional deficiencies are more likely in patients experiencing polypharmacy due to potential drug-nutrient interactions.
4. Monitoring and managing polypharmacy requires collaboration between healthcare providers, including dietitians and nurses.
5. Polypharmacy can lead to anemia or other blood disorders if medications interfere with nutrient uptake essential for red blood cell production.

Review Questions

• How does polypharmacy affect nutrient absorption and metabolism?
• What is the relationship between polypharmacy and blood clotting mechanisms?
• Why is collaboration important in managing patients experiencing polypharmacy?

Related terms

Adverse Drug Reaction: An unwanted side effect caused by the administration of drugs.

Drug-Nutrient Interaction: The effect that a medication has on the absorption, metabolism, or excretion of nutrients.

Anemia: A condition marked by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, often resulting from nutritional deficiencies or chronic disease.