Demographic Distribution of Polypharmacy Among Outpatients in Tertiary Care Hospital in Mysuru: A Prospective Observational Study

Author

Dr Ashwini Bhide M A, Dr Goutham Gowda B, Dr Kavya M L, Dr Umesh M, Dr Hanumanthachar Joshi


Abstract

 Background: Polypharmacy, commonly defined as the concurrent use of five or more medications, is an important concern among middle-aged and older adults. Multiple medication use may increase the risk of adverse drug events, drug interactions, medication errors and treatment burden.

Objective: To determine the proportion of OPD patients aged 45 years and above exposed to polypharmacy and describe their demographic and clinical characteristics.

Methods: A prospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted from February to July 2026 in the Outpatient Departments of Farookh Academy of Medical Education Hospital & Research Institute, Mysuru. Using convenience sampling, 135 eligible patients aged ≥45 years who were prescribed at least one medication were included. Demographic, clinical and medication-related data were collected through patient interviews and prescription/medical-record review. Polypharmacy was defined as the concurrent prescription of ≥5 medications.

Results: Among 135 participants, 95 (70.4%) were aged 45–59 years and 40 (29.6%) were aged ≥60 years. Females constituted 70 (51.9%) and males 65 (48.1%). Homemakers were the largest occupational group (47; 34.8%), followed by farmers (34; 25.2%). 

Conclusion: This study describes the demographic profile of OPD patients aged 45 years and above and evaluates polypharmacy in this population. The final prevalence estimate and subgroup analyses may help identify patients who could benefit from regular medication review and rational prescribing.


Keywords

Polypharmacy; Outpatients; Medication use; Cross-sectional study; Clinical pharmacy; Mysuru.



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