PsychologyAugust 8, 2026

polypharmacy

pol-ee-FAR-muh-see

Definition

The practice of prescribing multiple medications to a single patient, often to address various symptoms or conditions simultaneously.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'polys' meaning 'many' and the Greek 'pharmakeia' meaning 'use of drugs' or 'sorcery', coming into English via Medieval Latin.

In the news

The author references polypharmacy as a practice that should be avoided in favor of more person-centered care, though she notes that the current healthcare system often forces providers into this approach.

Opinion | RFK Jr. Has a Point About Psychiatry. It's Not the One He's Making.

Read the full article ↗

MedPage Today

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