I recently assisted in moderating a local research study of individuals who took six or more prescription medications a day.
Some participants spoke of needing to take pills with food, while others needed to take their medication on an empty stomach. Some were required to split their pills, and some needed to modify their dosage daily depending on their health condition.
Still others spoke of changing pill shape, size and even form as their pharmacy changed generic providers.
To an observer like me, the process of scheduling and taking all these medications was complicated and involved, even though almost all study participants had adjusted to their regimen.
One person said they take 44 pills per day. Another carried in his wallet a long list of all the medications he was required to take daily, just so he could remember all of them and what they’re for.
Like it or not, we are a society of pill takers.