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While polypharmacy is typically regarded as undesirable, prescription of multiple medications can be appropriate and therapeutically beneficial in some circumstances. [24] “ Appropriate polypharmacy” is described as prescribing for complex or multiple conditions in such a way that necessary medicines are used based on the best available ...
A prescription drug (also prescription medication, prescription medicine or prescription-only medication) is a pharmaceutical drug that is permitted to be dispensed only to those with a medical prescription. In contrast, over-the-counter drugs can be obtained without a prescription.
However, elderly individuals may face challenges, including multiple medications with frequent dosing, and potentially decreased dexterity or cognitive functioning. Patient knowledge is a concern that has been observed. In 1999 Cline et al. identified several gaps in knowledge about medication in elderly patients discharged from hospital. [40]
The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) is an American 501(c)(3) organization focusing on the prevention of medication errors and promoting safe medication practices. [1] It is affiliated with ECRI .
Drug use among elderly Americans has been studied; in a group of 2,377 people with an average age of 71 surveyed between 2005 and 2006, 84% took at least one prescription drug, 44% took at least one over-the-counter (OTC) drug, and 52% took at least one dietary supplement; in a group of 2245 elderly Americans (average age of 71) surveyed over ...
[55] [56] [57] However, as the Merck Manual of Geriatrics notes, "thiazide-type diuretics are especially safe and effective in the elderly." [ 58 ] Current UK guidelines suggest starting patients over the age of 55 years and all those of African/Afrocaribbean ethnicity firstly on calcium channel blockers or thiazide diuretics, whilst younger ...
The prescription symbol, ℞, as printed on the blister pack of a prescription drug. A prescription, often abbreviated ℞ or Rx, is a formal communication from a physician or other registered healthcare professional to a pharmacist, authorizing them to dispense a specific prescription drug for a specific patient.
It is an environment where people feel comfortable sharing concerns and mistakes without fear of embarrassment or retribution. This safe environment enables not just speaking up, which is clearly relevant to patient safety, but also sharing new ideas and giving candid feedback. Through this process, a wider variety of information is shared in ...