Final answer:
The statement that polypharmacy in older adults may lead to an increased risk of drug interactions and adverse effects is true. As the number of medications increases, so does the complexity of managing them and the potential for harmful interactions and side effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Polypharmacy in older adults may lead to an increased risk of drug interactions and adverse effects. This statement is True. As individuals age, they are more likely to suffer from multiple health conditions, which can result in the prescription of multiple medications. This increases the complexity of medication management and the potential for drug interactions. Certain drugs like antibiotics, are subject to interaction risks due to differences in patient factors such as age, which may lead to resistance or reduced effectiveness.
Negative side effects of these interactions can be severe, including an increased risk of stroke heart attack and several types of cancer. Furthermore, antagonistic drug interactions might occur, leading to reduced therapeutic efficacy or increased potential for toxicity. For instance some antibiotics may be less effective if taken with antacids due to increased stomach pH. In general, managing the medication regimen of older adults requires careful consideration to minimize the risks of adverse effects and maximize therapeutic outcomes.