Are you taking too many medications?
Learn the risks of polypharmacy — and how to safely manage your medications.
- Reviewed by Anthony L. Komaroff, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Health Letter; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing

How many medications do you take? Most U.S. adults ages 40 to 79 use at least one prescription drug, and 22% of us take five or more, according to the CDC. The number might be higher if you have several chronic conditions that require treatment. And when you factor in over-the-counter drugs (such aspirin or sleep aids), vitamins, and supplements, your pill burden can grow to double digits.
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About the Author

Heidi Godman, Executive Editor, Harvard Health Letter
About the Reviewer

Anthony L. Komaroff, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Health Letter; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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