Research tracking polypharmacy, defined as individuals regularly taking five or more medications, has identified an increase in multiple medicine use over the past decade in Australia. This rise is primarily attributed to a growth in prevalence among men. This study was led by PhD student Georgie Lee from The University of Western Australia's School of Health and Medical Sciences and published in Drugs & Aging. It examined polypharmacy trends in Australian men and women across various age groups between 2013 and 2024. The findings indicate an increase in polypharmacy from 8 percent to 9.2 percent.
As of 2024, nearly two million Australians were experiencing polypharmacy. Among this group, 30 percent were aged 65 years or older, while 3.4 percent were under 65 years, regularly consuming five or more medications. Taking several medicines can heighten the risk of side effects, harmful interactions, and hospital visits.
The study observed that the increase in polypharmacy, historically more common among women, was largely driven by a rise among men, with prevalence remaining relatively stable among women. While older adults still comprise the majority of polypharmacy cases (approximately 70 percent), an increase in instances among younger and middle-aged adults suggests an earlier onset of multiple medicine use.
Dr. Amy Page, Senior Author from UWA's Centre for Optimisation of Medicines, stated that awareness of these trends could assist consumers in understanding the significance of regular medication reviews. Individuals are advised to inquire about their prescriptions and engage in informed discussions with healthcare providers. Clinicians and policymakers can utilize this information to customize care and develop and evaluate targeted strategies aimed at reducing risks. Understanding risk profiles is intended to help Australians use medicines more safely throughout their lives.
The research underscores the necessity for regular medication reviews to ensure treatments remain safe and appropriate over time. Ms. Lee noted that while stabilizing or declining polypharmacy among older women might appear promising, a reduction in medicines does not automatically signify improved care. Careful monitoring and comprehensive medication management, encompassing both prescribed and deprescribed medicines, are considered essential to prevent harm.