A Study of Polypharmacy in Elderly Diabetics

Abstract

Background: Polypharmacy is increasingly common among elderly individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) due to multiple comorbidities requiring complex pharmacotherapy. It poses risks such as adverse drug reactions, drug interactions, and functional decline.

Objective: To assess the prevalence, patterns, and associated factors of polypharmacy in elderly patients with T2DM.

Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over one year in a tertiary care hospital and included 180 elderly diabetic patients (aged ?60 years). Data on demographics, comorbidities, medications, and functional status were collected and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: Polypharmacy (?5 medications) was observed in 70% of patients, and excessive polypharmacy (?10 medications) in 15.6%. Common drug classes included oral hypoglycemics, antihypertensives, and statins. Significant associations were found between polypharmacy and older age, ?2 comorbidities, chronic kidney disease, and low ADL scores (p < 0.05). Potentially inappropriate medications were noted in 23.3% of cases.

Conclusion: Polypharmacy is highly prevalent among elderly diabetics and is associated with clinical and functional burden. Regular medication reviews and individualized treatment plans are crucial to reduce associated risks.

Keywords: Polypharmacy, Elderly, Type 2 Diabetes, Comorbidities