Pitfalls of solving polypharmacy problems

Czech version

Authors: Štefan Alušík ¹; Zoltán Paluch ²
Authors‘ workplace: Katedra vnitřního lékařství IPVZ, Praha ¹; Ústav farmakologie 2. LF UK, Praha ²
Published in: Vnitř Lék 2021; 67(1): 22-25
Category:

Overview

Polymedication is associated with a higher incidence of negative health indicators including falls, morbidity and mortality. Despite efforts, the solution to this problem is still unsatisfactory. The two main causes of polymedication are population aging and polymorbidity and, on the other hand, the development of the pharmaceutical industry and the availability of a wide range of medicines. The authors discuss the main shortcomings in the investigation of this issue, such as inconsistent terminology used, methodological shortcomings in data acquisition, lack of recommended guidelines for the polymorbid patients treatment, etc. They discuss whether polymedication is the cause or marker of increased falls, frailty and mortality. In the end they critically evaluate possible solution of polymedication in future – personalised medicine.

Keywords:

polypharmacy – polymorbidity – guidelines – personalised medicine

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