Signs you might be taking too many meds

Many of us take prescription drugs on a regular basis. Indeed, some of us need them to stay healthy enough to have a good quality of life. The problem is when these meds start to add up, and of course the adverse effects this can have on our health and finances. Polypharmacy, a term used to describe the use of multiple drugs, can be dangerous.

In this gallery, we address the signs that you might be taking too many meds. Click on to find out more.

You have access to good health care

This usually means that you can consult with different doctors, and have medications prescribed by them, increasing the risk of taking too many meds.

You engage in double doctoring

Double doctoring, or doctor shopping, is when someone deliberately seeks out other doctors to get more prescriptions, often of the same drugs.

You use more than one pharmacy

Using multiple pharmacies may also be a sign that you’re taking too many prescription drugs. Pharmacists who don’t have a record of your previous prescriptions won’t be able to advise any possible side effects or interactions, for example.

You’ve lost track of the the foods and drinks you shouldn't consume with your meds

Some conditions and medications have an interaction with specific foods and beverages. If you no longer remember the foods that can interfere with your medications, it might be a sign you’re taking too much.

You’re taking the same drugs you were taking 20 years ago

As we age, our bodies change how we metabolize certain substances. As an example, if you’re 40 but taking the same drugs and dosages you were taking when you were 20, you might be at risk.

You find it hard to keep track of the dosages and times you should take your meds

Different meds are required to be taken at specific times. Equally important is the dosage, which many times is linked to the time interval you take the meds. If you’re struggling to keep on top of these, you might be taking too many meds.

You experience adverse effects from drug interactions

Adverse side effects from drug interactions can range from mild (e.g. nausea, headaches, etc.) to really serious (heart attack or liver damage).

You take meds to treat side effects of other meds

This is a common occurrence, especially when you’re taking lots of meds. It’s common for doctors to prescribe a drug to ease the side effects of another prescription drug you’re taking. This, however, has the potential to cascade.

Remembering, focusing, and even thinking is becoming a problem

Medication fog is a common side effect when people take too many meds. The symptoms can be similar to Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

You’re struggling to pay for your prescriptions

If you take multiple prescription drugs, it all adds up, and it can be really expensive. You can talk to your doctor about alternatives such as switching to a generic form of the meds you’re taking, for example.

You’ve been recently hospitalized

Individuals are more likely to suffer medication changes when they are hospitalized. This often means adding new drugs to the ones you already take.

You haven’t spoken to your doctor about changes in meds

It’s easy for us to get carried away and take drugs by routine without discussing with our doctor any alternatives, or indeed if we should continue to take them (at least in the same dosage).

You’re worried about addiction

Yes, you can get addicted to some prescription drugs. If you’re worrying about it, then maybe you have a reason to.