Laurie Archbald-Pannone, MD
Laurie Archbald-Pannone, MD, an associate professor and geriatrician in the UVA Department of Medicine, wrote an article on polypharmacy that was featured in more than 100 news outlets nationally, including Yahoo.
The taking of multiple medications is called polypharmacy, typically four or more at the same time. That includes prescriptions from doctors, over-the-counter medicines, supplements, and herbs. Sometimes, polypharmacy can be dangerous says Dr. Archbald-Pannone, especially for elderly baby boomers. About half of older adults take at least one medication that’s not necessary or no longer needed. Hence, it’s crucial for doctors to regularly reassess each medication’s suitability for the patient and ensure the dosage remains appropriate.
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