Investigation of the Impact of Polypharmacy on Medication Adherence, Therapeutic Outcomes, and Incidence of Drug-Drug Interactions Among Geriatric Patients in Community Pharmacy Settings: A Cross-Sectional Study

Anjali Patel, Dr. Karan Singh

Department of Pharmacy Practice, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Mohali, Punjab, India

Abstract

Polypharmacy, which is typically characterized by the simultaneous use of five or more medications, has become more common among elderly patients due to the presence of multiple chronic conditions and increased life spans. Although using several medications is often essential for managing diseases, polypharmacy can lead to negative outcomes such as poor adherence to medication regimens, a higher likelihood of drug–drug interactions (DDIs), reduced effectiveness of treatments, and elevated healthcare expenses. Community pharmacies play a vital role in dispensing medications, providing counseling, and monitoring patients, making them ideal settings to assess the effects of polypharmacy in real-world elderly populations. This cross-sectional study examines how polypharmacy affects medication adherence, therapeutic results, and the occurrence of potential DDIs among older patients in community pharmacy environments. The research analyzes medication usage patterns, the prevalence of polypharmacy, factors influencing adherence, and clinical outcomes related to drug interactions. Data is gathered through structured patient interviews, prescription reviews, and standardized adherence assessments. Drug–drug interactions are evaluated using validated screening tools, while therapeutic outcomes are assessed through disease control indicators and self-reported health status. Current evidence suggests that polypharmacy significantly raises the risk of adverse drug reactions, hospitalizations, treatment failures, and a decline in quality of life for older adults. Additionally, a high medication load is linked to lower adherence and complicated dosing schedules, which ultimately undermine therapeutic effectiveness. This study offers a comprehensive evaluation of how polypharmacy affects adherence behaviors and clinical outcomes in elderly individuals living in the community. The results are anticipated to underscore the extent of challenges related to polypharmacy, identify factors predicting non-adherence, measure the burden of DDIs, and provide practical insights for community pharmacists and healthcare professionals. Ultimately, the study seeks to encourage rational prescribing, improve medication therapy management (MTM), and enhance patient safety in geriatric care.

Keywords

Multiple Medications; Older Adults; Compliance with Medication; Interactions Between Drugs; Treatment Results; Local Pharmacy; Observational Study; Management of Medication Therapy; Pharmacotherapy for Seniors; Safety of Patients