Here’s a New Term: Polypharmacy

Polypharmacy is defined as the use of multiple or unnecessary medications. One of the questions I often get goes something like “How do I get off all these medications my doctor has me on?” Another related question is “I don’t want to take medications—I want to do things the natural way.” These are valid goals, but it may not be easy.

Because of the nature of some conditions, there may be no other way. But when it comes to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension, there may be a lot you can do, and thereby hangs a tale.

Several years ago, an 82-year-old man had been living with several heart issues: coronary artery disease, elevated cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and persistent atrial fibrillation. With multiple medications to control symptoms and treat the conditions, he was a poster child for polypharmacy. He was admitted to a hospital while having a heart attack. The surgeon opened the artery, more medications were added, and he was released. On his follow-up, he was not feeling well, weak, and had periods of brain fog. He was referred for cardiac rehabilitation.

At some point, he decided that he wanted to reduce his medications. Together with a wellness center and under the supervision of his physicians, he changed his diet; on Saturday, I’ll tell you what happened over the next six months.

The Kids Top Health Issues webinar on January 26 still has openings. Every day, more scary headlines cast doubt on science and health practices. For example, will fluoride really impact a child’s IQ? Those questions and more will be covered in this webinar. Reserve your spot today.

What are you prepared to do today?