Evaluation of the frequency of polypharmacy and their knowledge and attitudes on rational drug use in individuals over 18 years of age

Objective: Due to the development of the pharmaceutical industry, improved access to medications, and increased life expectancy—particularly among the elderly—the frequency of polypharmacy has increased in our country as well. Consequently, the concept of rational drug use has gained importance. This study aimed to measure the frequency of polypharmacy and assess the knowledge and attitudes regarding rational drug use among individuals registered with family medicine practices. Additionally, it aimed to raise awareness and improve knowledge on rational drug use among participants. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted with 1,705 individuals aged 18 years and older, who were registered at the No. 80 Family Health Center in Selçuklu District, Konya, and agreed to participate voluntarily. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire consisting of 33 questions and a 21-item Rational Drug Use (RDU) Scale. Descriptive statistics were presented as numbers, percentages, and mean ± standard deviation. The Pearson Chi-Square test was used to analyze relationships between categorical variables. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 25.0. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 1,705 individuals participated in the study. The median age was 38 years (range: 19–89). Of the participants, 73.3% (n=1250) were between 18–49 years, 20.0% (n=341) were between 50–64 years, and 6.7% (n=114) were aged 65 and above. At least one chronic disease was present in 36.4% (n=621) of participants. The most commonly used medication group was antihypertensives, with a frequency of 21.0% (n=280). Polypharmacy, defined as the use of five or more medications, was observed in 13.3% (n=226) of the participants. According to the RDU Scale, 24.7% (n=421) of participants scored below 35 points, while 75.3% (n=1284) scored 35 points or higher. No statistically significant difference was found between individuals with and without polypharmacy in terms of RDU scores (p=0.064). The prevalence of polypharmacy was 3.12% in the 18–49 age group, 33.43% in the 50–64 age group, and 64.03% in the 65+ age group. The frequency of polypharmacy was significantly higher among individuals aged 65 and older compared to other age groups (p<0.001). Additionally, 72.4% of participants reported using prescribed medications for the full recommended duration, while 25.9% stated that they used medications without a prescription. The most frequently used non-prescription drugs were pain relievers and cold medications. Moreover, most participants reported keeping medications at home. Conclusion: The data indicate a need to increase public awareness about rational drug use. It is essential that physicians, pharmacists, and educational institutions collaborate in this effort. Rational and safe medication use is especially crucial for the elderly and individuals with chronic illnesses. Studies like this aim to reduce medication-related errors and promote healthy medication habits in the community. Keywords: Family Medicine; Rational Drug Use; Polypharmacy;