Overmedicated

Less is more. This is typically true with prescription medication. Although some medications are lifesaving, many people in this country are overmedicated, especially older adults. The term is called polypharmacy. According to the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists, 65-69 year olds take an average of 14 prescription drugs per year, and by the age range of 80-84 that average increases to 18 prescription drugs per year. The cost of overmedication with the elderly population is estimated at $80 billon annually (http://www.healthwatchersnews.com/2010/10/when-seniors-are-over-medicated/).

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