Prevalence and Predictors of Polypharmacy among Korean Elderly

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0098043
• Publication Date: 2014-06-10T23:57:43Z
• Authors: Hong-Ah Kim; Ju-Young Shin; Mi-Hee Kim; Byung-Joo Park
• Keywords: Cross-sectional study

Polypharmacy is widespread in the elderly because of their multiple chronic health problems. The objective this study was to investigate prevalence and predictors associated with polypharmacy a nationally representative sample Korean individuals.We used Korea Health Insurance Review Assessment Service - National Patient Sample (HIRA-NPS) data from 2010 2011. We information on 319,185 patients (aged 65 years or older) between January 1, December 31, 2011 HIRA-NPS database. defined 'polypharmacy' as concurrent use 6 medications more per person, 'major polypharmacy' 11 more, 'excessive 21 more. frequency proportion (%) 95% confidence intervals were presented according definition. visualized by Quantum Geographic Information Systems (QGIS) program describe regional differences patterns drug use. Multivariate ordinal logistic regression performed estimate odds ratios (ORs) (CI) risk factors for polypharmacy.Of studied, 86.4% had polypharmacy, 44.9% major 3.0% excessive polypharmacy. found be primarily concentrated Southwest region country. Significant associations lower-income Medical Aid population (OR = 1.52, CI 1.47, 1.56) compared observed.Nationwide efforts are needed managing among patients. In particular, national campaign education promote appropriate medicines needed.