Canada needs a comprehensive strategy to improve prescription drug safety for seniors

The dangers of polypharmacy for seniors are seen in doctors’ offices and hospitals.

Canada's federal Health Minister Jane Philpott, pictured in this file photo on the Hill. The more medications seniors consume, the more likely they are to require urgent medical attention or go to emergency departments. A study found that 12 per cent of Canadian seniors taking five or more medications have experienced an adverse reaction requiring medical attention. The Hill Times photograph by Jake Wright

Opinion

BY NICOLE F. BERNIER

January 30, 2017

Four years ago, at age 84, my dad survived a severe stroke. The downside is that during his hospital stay this otherwise fit person was put on a drug regimen and has been taking nine prescription drugs a day ever since. My dad’s experience with multiple drugs is not uncommon for his age group. Se...

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