Study: More than half of insureds on chronic-care meds

A new study suggests that for the first time, more than half of insured Americans are regularly taking prescriptions for chronic health problems. The most popular drugs include those used to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, according to Medco Health Solutions, which manages prescription benefits for about one in five Americans. 

According to Medco data, 51 percent of American children and adults were taking one or more prescription drugs for a chronic condition, marginally up from 50 percent the previous four years and 47 percent in 2001. Use of medication for chronic conditions was spread across age groups. However, the biggest jump in the use of such medications was in the 20- to 44-year-old age group, due largely to more use of drugs for depression, diabetes, asthma, attention-deficit disorder and seizures.

To learn more about the study:
- read this Associated Press article

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