One in three Irish people over the age of 65 regularly use five or more medicines, pharmacists have said.

They are warning older people who regularly take several medicines that they can be at risk of complications from drug interactions, falls and fractures.

"As people get older, medicines management can become more complex. For many older people, it is a challenge for various reasons to stick accurately to their treatment plan, which can have a negative impact on their health, safety and ultimately their quality of life. It is important that elderly people are supported in taking their medicines correctly," commented Kathy Maher, vice-president of the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU).

Pharmacists are also calling on the Minister for Health, Dr James Reilly, to widen their role by allowing them to provide medicine use reviews (MURs). This is a consultation-based service which allows pharmacists to help their patients get the most out of their treatment.

This service is currently provided by pharmacists to patients in the UK as part of the NHS.

"A MUR is an opportunity for a patient to discuss their medicines with a qualified pharmacist. It complements the role of the doctor to identify if there are any interactions, discuss side-effects, eliminate duplication or identify any problems associated with a patient's medicines. It is a safe, efficient and cost-effective initiative, which puts the patient first," Ms Maher noted.

Meanwhile, the IPU is advising older patients to talk to their pharmacist regularly about the medicines they are taking, especially if they have to start taking new medication. They are also being reminded to inform their pharmacist if they are taking any over-the-counter or herbal medicines, as these can react with prescription medicines and affect their efficacy.

The IPU has issued the following advice to older people:
-Try to take medicines at the same time every day. If you have to take different ones at different times, set some sort of reminder
-If you find it difficult to swallow capsules or tablets, let your pharmacist know, as some medicines come in soluble or liquid forms
-If you miss a dose of your medicine or cannot remember if you have taken a dose, contact your pharmacist for advice
-Never take medicines that have passed their expiry date
-Always keep medicines in the container they came in. Do not mix medicines in one container.