You take a blood pressure pill every morning, a cholesterol medication at bedtime, something for arthritis, and another prescription to help you sleep. Add an occasional allergy pill or over-the-counter pain reliever, and suddenly you’re taking five or more medications without giving it much thought. Each medication may serve an important purpose, but have you ever considered how they might interact with one another?
Taking five or more medications increases the likelihood of side effects, particularly those that can contribute to falls or driving difficulties. The concern becomes even greater as age-related changes affect how the body processes certain drugs. Here are nine questions you should ask about interactions and what you should know about your medications.