Recently, I heard a troubling story about a friend who was hospitalized due to dangerously low blood pressure. After several days in the hospital, clinicians were able to stabilize her condition. The cause? Polypharmacy, a term defined by the World Health Organization as the administration of many drugs at the same time, or the administration of an excessive number of drugs.
My friend, let's call her Kate, has struggled with blood pressure fluctuations for years. Just last month, she visited a specialist who prescribed a new medication. Unfortunately, the specialist didn't instruct her to stop taking the blood pressure medicine she was already on. Since the doctor called the prescription into the clinic's in-house pharmacy, there was no record of Kate's current medications in the system, and the pharmacist wasn't aware she was already being treated for the same condition.
The result: Kate unintentionally began taking two medications that dangerously lowered her blood pressure.
What's more, Kate had noticed she was taking two blood pressure medications, but assumed that if her doctor wanted her to stop the old one, he would have said so. This assumption almost cost her her life.
Five steps to stay safe
How can we prevent this from happening to others, especially older adults, who are more likely to take multiple medications at once? Here are a few critical steps you or your loved ones can take:
- Check and double-check. Always confirm new prescriptions with your doctor and make sure they know everything you're currently taking.
- Bring a list of medications. Carry an up-to-date list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to every appointment.
- Talk with a pharmacist. Pharmacists are medication experts. Ask them to review your medications for potential interactions, including supplements and over-the-counter medications.
- Read the drug insert. Even if it is long or technical, review the printed information that comes with your medication to be aware of common and uncommon side effects.
- Call your doctor with any questions. During visits, so much information is covered that it is easy to forget exactly what your practitioner said. Don't hesitate to follow up for clarification.
While our healthcare system offers more tools and technology than ever before, patients must remain proactive. Don't assume that someone else is keeping track. Ask questions, stay organized, and advocate for your health, or that of someone you care for.
In the end, safety starts with awareness.