Pharmacist's Role in Minimizing the Problem of Polypharmacy

Nova Southeastern University, Davie, Florida, USA

Objective: The purpose of this study was to take a panoramic view of potential ways HCP especially Pharmacists, can combat a problem that will not be going away for the foreseeable future. The approach taken to determine an appropriate course of action involved developing a poster focused on defining Polypharmacy and possible intervention strategies of health care providers. Background: The duality of medication is one of the most fascinating juxtaposition that faces healthcare providers. Medication is necessary to treat various ailments. However, the current chasm within healthcare when it relates to medication regimen and allocation is a serious public health issue. Polypharmacy involves the prescribing and consumption of many medications to treat a single ailment. In addition, such practices can lead to various adverse effects for the patient. Recent reports has shown increasing fear of over prescribing leading to underdosing. The importance of understanding Polypharmacy stems from patients who are currently at risk because of a lack of communication regarding their drug regimen. The concept of Polypharmacy is difficult to discuss because of the many moving parts involving Pharmacists and any other health care provider that interact with a patient’s medication. Methods: A broad search was conducted using various databases such as NCBI and PubMed Results: The reduction of Polypharmacy through Pharmacist intervention would lead to better patient outcomes. Conclusions: The literature suggests there are successful pathways in which Pharmacists can intervene in Polypharmacy. Solving Polypharmacy would signal less patient adverse reactions and better patient outcomes regarding their long-term health.