Polypharmacy: a term used by healthcare professionals and pharmacists when someone uses many medications at the same time.

While individual medicines can help maintain health and prevent further illness, taking combinations of drugs could put the user at risk for unnecessary and unwanted drug interactions.

The problem
Some people are taking a number of prescription medicines as well as over-the-counter (OTC) preparations such as herbs or vitamins. Research overwhelmingly shows that people who use herbs, vitamins or other OTC pro-ducts do so without talking to a physician or pharmacist first. Buying something over-the-counter doesn’t mean it’s safe for you to take, it could interact with prescribed medications. For example, if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, prostate problems, glaucoma or congestive heart failure, talk to your pharmacist before using any cough and cold products. Some contain a decongestant that can worsen your condition and work against the medications.

Working together
Follow these simple points to ensure healthy medication use:

• Always ask your health care provider why each medication is prescribed and what it’s intended to do
• Make sure you understand when and how to take each medication (eg. with food or on an empty stomach, before bedtime)
  
• Take your medications exactly as directed; ask what to do if you miss a dose
  

• At each health care provider visit, review all your medications and their dosages
  
• Use the same pharmacy for all of your prescription medications. Today’s computer systems will alert the pharmacist to possible drug interactions
  
• Read labels on medications carefully – labels can be made with large print if requested
  
• Contact your health care provider immediately if you experience any problems or side effects due to your medication. They’ll advise an appropriate course of action. Common side effects: dizziness, nausea, headache, and gastrointestinal problems
  
• Do not stop taking a medication without discussing with your health care provider first. If you’re having problems with a medication, there may be another choice. Also, some medications must gradually be stopped to avoid additional problems
  
• Avoid combination products such as cold formulas. Always ask your pharmacist to help you find a product for your symptoms and not for every possible symptom. Confirm directions on using the product and for how long
  
• The best advice: Be responsible for your own well-being.

H&L

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