Communication and collaboration to reduce polypharmacy

Polypharmacy is traditionally defined as a high use of medications per individual (commonly ≥5), but can also relate to inappropriate prescribing. Inappropriate polypharmacy is of particular concern as it is associated with increased adverse reactions, drug–drug interactions, and increased rates of hospitalisation and mortality. High levels of polypharmacy are seen in older adults. For example, a study in Europe found polypharmacy rates (defined as ≥5 medications) of 23–58% in adults aged 65 years and older.