CDC: Nine Out of 10 Seniors Take at Least One Prescription Drug

A new data brief from the CDC reports that the use of prescription drugs continues to rise and that nine out of 10 seniors are taking at least one prescription medication. The CDC also noted that prescription drug use increases with age and that women are more likely than men to take prescription drugs.

Total spending on prescription drugs reached $234.1 billion in 2008, which is more than double what was spent in 1999.

Among adults age 60 and older, the most commonly used prescription drugs were:

• Cholesterol-lowering drugs: 44.9%
• Beta blockers (for high blood pressure and heart disease): 26.4%
• Diuretics (also for high blood pressure and heart disease): 19.9%

To view additional study findings, click here.