Define polypharmacy in a clinical context.

Polypharmacy refers to the simultaneous use of multiple medications by a patient, typically characterized by the prescribing of five or more medications. This situation is common in older adults who may have multiple health conditions requiring various treatments. The increase in medication complexity can sometimes lead to adverse drug interactions, complications, and challenges in medication management. It is essential for healthcare providers to carefully monitor medications to minimize the risks associated with polypharmacy, ensuring that each medication is necessary, appropriate, and effective in the context of the patient’s overall care plan. The other options provided do not accurately capture the clinical definition of polypharmacy.