Use of Dietary Supplements in Elderly People

Investigators in a Journal American Geriatric Society study found that 82.5% of patients used at least 1 dietary supplement, and 54.5% used 3 or more. The average number of prescription medications used per patient was 3.5; the average number of supplements was 3.4. The majority (83%) of prescription medication users also used supplements. No difference was found in supplement or prescription use with respect to sex or age. A weak correlation between the number of prescription medications used and number of supplements used was identified. Classes of prescription drugs most frequently coadministered with supplements were nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, thyroid medications, and estrogens.

Bonnie - this study stresses the importance of working with a licensed professional to determine potential contraindications between supplements and medications.

What it also tells you is that most elderly are taking supplements.