Polypharmacy Risk: How Taking Too Many Drugs Can Hurt You

When you’re taking polypharmacy risk, the danger that comes from using multiple medications at once, often leading to harmful side effects or interactions. Also known as multiple drug use, it’s not just about having a long list of prescriptions—it’s about how those drugs work together, or against each other, in your body. This isn’t just a problem for older adults, though they’re most affected. People with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or depression often end up on five, six, or even ten different pills. And every extra drug adds a new chance for something to go wrong.

One big issue is drug interactions, when two or more medications change how each other works in your system. For example, a blood thinner and an anti-inflammatory can increase bleeding risk. Or, a common antihistamine like hydroxyzine might slow your heart rhythm when mixed with other heart meds. Then there’s adverse drug events, unexpected harmful reactions that aren’t listed on the label—things like dizziness, confusion, falls, or kidney damage. These aren’t rare. Studies show nearly 1 in 3 older adults on five or more drugs ends up in the hospital because of them.

It’s not always the doctor’s fault. Sometimes, you see one specialist for your heart, another for your joints, and a third for your anxiety. Each prescribes what they think is best—without knowing what the others ordered. That’s why medication safety, the practice of using drugs in a way that avoids harm isn’t just about taking pills correctly. It’s about having someone look at your whole list. A pharmacist, a care coordinator, even a careful review during a telehealth visit can catch problems before they cause damage.

Some drugs are riskier than others. Anticholinergics—used for allergies, overactive bladder, or sleep—have been linked to memory loss and dementia over time. Kidney function drops as we age, so drugs that used to be safe may now build up to toxic levels. And if you’re taking supplements or herbal products like St. John’s Wort, they can quietly mess with your prescription meds, too. The truth? More drugs don’t mean better health. Often, it’s the opposite.

What you’ll find below are real, practical guides on spotting the warning signs, asking the right questions, and working with your care team to cut unnecessary pills. From how to prepare for a medication review to understanding why certain drugs are dangerous for seniors, these posts give you the tools to take control—not just of your prescriptions, but of your safety.