How Prescription Medication Accelerates Aging

Derrick M. DeSilva, Jr., M.D.

Teaching Faculty, JFK Medical Center, Edison, NJ; Co-Chair, Department of Complimentary Medicine and Senior Attending Staff, Raritan Bay Medical Center, Perth Amboy, NJ

Over 60% of the US population over the age of 50 is on at least one prescription medication. A significant number of children are also on various medications, from asthma drugs to digestive aids. There is no question that prescription medications play a definite role in health but at what cost. As a result of the nutrient depletion from the prescription medication various disease states may be accelerated. For example, the depletion of magnesium from proton pump inhibitors (PPI) could predispose individuals to cardiac arrhythmias and then cause an entire cascade for the use of other drugs that many deplete more nutrients and potentially accelerate the aging process. Being aware of these depletions and correcting the depletions ahead of time plays a critical role not only to the predisposition of other disease but also improving the quality of life for our patients. During the presentation we will discuss the role of prescription medications, along with helping resolve some of the confusion about the key role that supplements play in our health.