| [ Summary ] |
It was reported that the frequency of polypharmacy in dialysis patients is approximately 90 %, according to the general definition. The problems related to polypharmacy, however, have not been well defined in this population. Pharmacists should monitor the effectiveness and safety of current medications. In addition, pharmacists must pay attention to drugs that are hazardous to dialysis patients. In order to maintain appropriateness of the treatment, current prescriptions should be periodically evaluated. Polypharmacy cannot be easily resolved. It is important for physicians and pharmacists to clearly recognize that the patient has problems due to polypharmacy. Collaboration among various professions is necessary to solve these complicated problems. |