What is a common polymedicine issue faced by older adults?

The correct answer highlights a significant concern in the management of pharmacotherapy among older adults, which is the increased chance of side effects from multiple medications. As individuals age, their bodies undergo various physiological changes that can affect how medications are absorbed, metabolized, and eliminated. Older adults often have multiple chronic conditions, leading to the use of several medications, a situation termed polymedicine or polypharmacy.

This increased polypharmacy heightens the risk of adverse drug reactions and interactions because multiple drugs can interact with each other, amplifying side effects or diminishing therapeutic effects. Older adults may also have a reduced capacity to tolerate medications due to age-related changes in organ function, increasing the likelihood of experiencing negative effects.

While other options present considerations within medication regimens, they do not capture the primary concern related to polymedicine in geriatric care as precisely as the heightened risk of side effects does. These side effects can significantly impact the quality of life and adherence to treatment plans in older adults, making it crucial to manage their medications carefully. Thus, recognizing and addressing the potential for increased side effects is essential in geriatric pharmacotherapy.