POLYPHARMACY: TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH TO UNDERSTAND EFFECTS OF AGE, SEX, AND FRAILTY ON KEY OUTCOMES FOR FORTITUDE
2024

Understanding Polypharmacy Effects in Older Adults

publication

Author Information

Author(s): Mach John

Primary Institution: Kolling Institute/The University of Sydney/Royal North Shore Hospital

Hypothesis

Polypharmacy negatively impacts physical function and increases frailty in older adults, especially women.

Conclusion

Polypharmacy is linked to worse physical function and increased frailty in older adults, particularly among women.

Supporting Evidence

  • Polypharmacy is common in older adults with multiple health issues.
  • Women are more likely to experience drug-related harm than men.
  • Preclinical models can help understand the impact of polypharmacy.

Takeaway

Taking many medications can make older people feel weaker and less able to do things, especially older women.

Methodology

The study uses preclinical models to investigate the effects of polypharmacy on geriatric outcomes.

Participant Demographics

Older adults, particularly women.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.1646

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