A shocking new study from the Mayo Clinic suggests that seven in ten Americans are taking at least one prescription drug, and more than one in two takes multiple drugs. Those most common prescription drugs are antibiotics, antidepressants, and painkillers. One in four patients is taking at least five drugs.
Dr. Jennifer St. Sauver said that while many Americans are taking drugs for physical issues, an enormous number are taking drugs for mental issues, which “suggests mental health is a huge issue and is something we should focus on.” St. Sauver also said that the painkiller use was problematic because of the addictive nature of the drugs.
The study found that women and elderly people take more drugs, that antidepressants and opiods are the most commonly prescribed for young and middle-aged people, and that nearly 25 percent of women aged 50-64 are on antidepressants.
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