Prevalence and trends in polypharmacy and excessive polypharmacy: a retrospective national database analysis (2012-2021).

BACKGROUND: Polypharmacy is a growing concern, impacting patient safety and healthcare costs. Monitoring its prevalence and temporal trends is essential for effective healthcare management.

AIM: This study aimed to determine prevalence and trends of polypharmacy and excessive polypharmacy in Belgium.

METHOD: Utilizing a federal claims database, medication data were analyzed from 2012 to 2021. Polypharmacy (≥ 5 medications) and excessive polypharmacy (≥ 10 medications) were evaluated, with prevalence calculated per 1000 inhabitants, and reported per year, age group and region. Linear regression estimated the impact of age and year on polypharmacy prevalence.

RESULTS: In 2021, polypharmacy and excessive polypharmacy were reported in 135/1000 and 31/1000 Belgians respectively. Prevalence of both increased steadily from 2012 to 2021, with excessive polypharmacy rising more prominently. Among adults aged ≥ 65 years, prevalence rates were higher, with polypharmacy at 434/1000 and excessive polypharmacy at 106/1000. Regional variations were observed, with prevalence highest in the Walloons region. Patient age and year (2012-2021) were associated with both polypharmacy and excessive polypharmacy (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: We observed increases in polypharmacy and excessive polypharmacy over a decade in Belgium, particularly among older adults. Efforts to monitor, manage, and optimize medication use are imperative to ensure safe and effective healthcare delivery.