Automedicação em pessoas 60+ fatores associados e implicações para a saúde e qualidade de vida

Abstract

Introduction. Self-medication is defined as the use of medications without a prescription or supervision from a qualified professional. This practice is common in society and, although often seen as a quick and accessible form of care, it can pose serious health risks. Among the most vulnerable groups is the elderly population, which, due to the natural aging process and the frequent presence of chronic diseases, uses a large number of drugs (Buozi et al., 2023). Objective. To describe self-medication in people aged 60+ and its consequences for quality of life and health, in light of scientific literature on the subject. Methodology. Descriptive-exploratory study, carried out through a bibliographic review of the literature. The search for articles was conducted in the LILACS, BDENF, BVS, Medline/PubMed, and Google Scholar databases, using descriptors related to self-medication, elderly, nursing, primary care, and health promotion. Studies published between 2020 and 2025, in Portuguese and available in full text, were included. The selected articles were subjected to analytical and interpretative reading to identify the factors associated with self-medication and its impacts on the health of the elderly. Results. The studies demonstrate that self-medication and polypharmacy represent significant problems for the health of the elderly, requiring the strengthening of public policies, health education actions, and pharmacotherapeutic follow-up strategies, which constitute important challenges for the health of the elderly population. According to the results reported in the included articles, these measures are fundamental to promoting the rational use of medications, reducing the risks of poisoning and adverse events, and contributing to safer, healthier aging and a better quality of life.Conclusion. It was concluded that addressing self-medication among older adults requires integrated actions in health promotion, health education, and continuous pharmacotherapeutic monitoring. The importance of interdisciplinary work involving nurses, pharmacists, and physicians in guiding the rational use of medications, preventing inappropriate polypharmacy, and identifying pharmacotherapy-related risks early is highlighted.