Why do seniors need to periodically review all their medications and supplements with a doctor?

As you age, the way your body processes medications changes, making regular reviews of your medication and supplement list with a doctor or pharmacist vital for your safety. Aging does not just mean an increase in the number of medications used to treat chronic conditions; it also involves physiological changes that affect how your body absorbs, utilizes, and clears medications [2]. A lack of medication coordination can expose you to the risk of harmful interactions you may not be aware of.

Risks of Drug Interactions in Old Age

The likelihood of drug interactions increases with age due to several factors. When you take more than one medication, combine prescription drugs with over-the-counter (OTC) medications, or use herbal supplements and vitamins, you risk interactions that can make a drug stronger than intended or render it completely ineffective [2]. This process is further affected by changes in liver and kidney function, which may slow down, altering the speed at which medication is cleared from your body.

Why Must the Review Include "Everything"?

It is a mistake to believe that only prescription drugs require attention. Your review list must include everything that enters your body:

• Medications prescribed by different doctors.
• Over-the-counter (OTC) medications (such as painkillers, antacids, and decongestants).
• Dietary supplements, vitamins, and herbal remedies.
• Eye drops, topical creams, and ointments.

These substances can interact with each other or with food and drink, potentially leading to side effects you might mistakenly assume are normal symptoms of aging, such as memory loss, loss of balance, or irritability [2].

Practical Steps to Improve Your Medication Safety

To protect yourself, always ensure you follow these steps during your medical visits:

• Keep an updated list: Maintain a written list of all your medications, supplements, and dosages, and share it with every doctor you visit or pharmacist you deal with [2].
• Discuss dietary habits: Tell your doctor if your dietary habits have changed or if you have started following a specific diet, as food and drink can affect medication absorption [2].
• Do not stop suddenly: Do not stop or adjust any medication on your own; always discuss with your doctor the possibility of reducing doses or simplifying your medication schedule if it is causing you difficulty [2].
• Utilize your pharmacist: The pharmacist is an excellent resource to help you understand how medications interact and to provide advice on managing dosing schedules [2].

Remember that medication review is an integral part of maintaining a healthy and independent lifestyle. You can find more guidance on adopting a supportive lifestyle in Healthy Aging: A Comprehensive Guide to a Healthy and Active Lifestyle (Arabic).

When Should You Seek Immediate Care?

If you notice the sudden appearance of new symptoms, severe mood swings, or unexplained loss of motor coordination, do not assume they are part of "normal aging" [1]. See your doctor immediately, as these effects could be the result of a drug interaction that requires quick intervention [2].

Medical references

• Older Adult Health
• As You Age: You and Your Medicines