Polypharmacy: Navigating the Medication Maze

Polypharmacy, the practice of taking multiple medications to manage complex or co-occurring health conditions, is increasingly common. While these medications can play essential roles in treating chronic diseases, mental health issues, and other medical conditions, using multiple prescriptions comes with significant risks. Interactions between drugs can lead to unexpected side effects, reduced effectiveness, or even toxicity. For patients, particularly older adults or those with multiple providers, it’s crucial to be cautious and keep all healthcare providers informed about every medication being taken.

At Empower Psychiatry & Sleep, we emphasize the importance of careful medication management and regular review. Our goal is to ensure that each medication is truly necessary, effective, and working harmoniously with others. Simplifying and streamlining medication regimens, when possible, can reduce side effects, increase overall well-being, and improve adherence. If you or someone you care about is on multiple medications, we encourage you to consult with your provider to ensure that each medication serves a clear, beneficial purpose.