What does the term "polypharmacy" mean?

The term "polypharmacy" refers to the concurrent use of multiple medications by a patient. This concept is particularly relevant in healthcare settings, especially among older adults or those with multiple chronic conditions, where patients may be prescribed several medications simultaneously to manage their various health issues. This practice can increase the risk of drug interactions, side effects, and non-adherence to treatment regimens. Understanding polypharmacy is crucial for healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective medication management, as it allows them to evaluate the necessity and appropriateness of each medication a patient is taking.