Taking multiple medications? Check if you should ask your GP for a medication review.
Polypharmacy means taking multiple medications at the same time — usually defined as 5 or more regular medications. It's very common, especially in older Australians, and is not automatically a problem. Many people genuinely need multiple medications to manage their conditions.
However, the more medications you take, the higher the risk of drug interactions, side effects, and "prescribing cascades" (where a new medication is prescribed to treat the side effect of another). A medication review can help identify whether all your medications are still necessary and appropriate.
A Home Medicines Review (HMR) is a free, Medicare-funded service where a pharmacist visits you at home to review all your medications. They check for interactions, side effects, and whether each medication is still needed.
Your GP can refer you for an HMR (MBS Item 900). The pharmacist prepares a report with recommendations, which your GP then reviews with you. It's available once per year and is especially valuable if you take 5+ medications, have been discharged from hospital recently, or are experiencing possible medication side effects.
A similar service called MedsCheck is available at participating pharmacies if you take 5+ medications.
Use one pharmacy. Your pharmacist can check for interactions across all your medications if they have the full picture.
Keep an up-to-date medication list. Carry it in your wallet or phone. Include dose, frequency, and the prescribing doctor. Show it at every appointment.
Use a dose administration aid (DAA). Also called a Webster pack — your pharmacy pre-packs your medications by day and time. Ask if they offer this service.
Ask about deprescribing. Some medications prescribed years ago may no longer be needed. Ask your GP: "Is there anything I could safely stop or reduce?"
Report side effects. Don't just put up with them — tell your GP. There may be a better alternative or the dose may be adjustable.