Taking Multiple Medications? A Guide to Medication Reviews for Older Adults

Many older adults take several medicines for different conditions, often prescribed by different doctors over many years. Each one may make sense on its own, but together they can cause side effects, interactions or confusion about what to take and when.

A medication review is a structured check of everything you take. This guide explains what it involves, how to prepare and what to ask. To see why this matters after 65, read our post on polypharmacy in older adults.

In a medication review, a clinician goes through every prescription, over-the-counter product, vitamin and supplement you use. The goal is to confirm that each one is still needed, safe for you now, taken correctly and not clashing with the others. It is not about taking you off your medicines for the sake of it. It is about making sure your list still fits your health today.

• The body processes many drugs differently with age, so a dose that was right years ago may not be now
• Several medicines together raise the chance of interactions and side effects such as dizziness, confusion or falls
• More prescribers means a greater chance that no one has the full picture
• Over-the-counter products and supplements can interact with prescriptions
• Health goals change, and so can the balance of benefits and risks

• You take five or more medicines, or take them from several pharmacies
• You have had a fall, new dizziness, confusion, constipation or unusual tiredness
• You started a new medicine after a hospital stay or specialist visit
• You are unsure what a medicine is for
• You skip doses because the schedule is confusing or the cost is high

1. Gather every medicine you use: prescriptions, over-the-counter products, creams, drops, patches, vitamins and herbal supplements.
2. Put them in a bag and bring them to the visit, or photograph the labels if that is easier.
3. Write down how and when you actually take each one, including doses you skip.
4. List any side effects or symptoms you have noticed.
5. Bring the names of your doctors and pharmacies, and your insurance card.
6. Bring a family member or caregiver if you want help remembering the discussion.

Never stop or change a medicine on your own. Some must be tapered or have risks when stopped suddenly.

• Keep one up-to-date written list in your wallet or phone
• Use one pharmacy when possible so interactions can be flagged
• Use a weekly pill organizer or reminders
• Update the list after every hospital stay or specialist visit
• Review it at least once a year, or sooner when something changes

Our guide to medication adherence offers more tips for staying on track.

KEL Healthcare's geriatric care service focuses on the needs of older adults, and our post on the complimentary medication review for new geriatric care patients explains what a visit can include. Medicines are also reviewed as part of chronic disease management when you have several conditions. Our guide to geriatric assessment versus an annual physical shows how a broader evaluation works. Check offerings and eligibility with the clinic when you book.

A regular medication review can catch problems early, simplify your routine and help you feel more confident about what you take. Bring everything, ask questions and keep your list current.

To schedule a review, book an appointment. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice.