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Drug Combinations Putting Seniors at Risk

Patients need to know that while medications are often beneficial, there are often risks associated with their use, Qato said.

"If they need to self-medicate with over-the-counter drugs or dietary supplements, they should consult with their physician or pharmacist. This is particularly important in older people because as people get older, they are more vulnerable to the negative effects of medications, including drug-to-drug interactions," Qato said.

The report is published in the Dec. 24/31 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.

For the study, Qato's team used survey data collected on more than 3,000 adults aged 57 to 85. The researchers looked for all medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, used between June 2005 and March 2006.

The researchers found that 91 percent of U.S. adults, about 50.5 million, used at least one medication regularly. Prescription medicines were used by 81 percent of adults, or 44.9 million older Americans. Most medications were used by those 75 to 85 years old.

In addition, almost 50 percent of older adults used at least one over-the-counter medication or dietary supplement. More women than men used prescription medications and dietary supplements.

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Susan Cody

Perimenopause Guide