Preventing Falls: 10 Types of Medications to Review if You’re Concerned About Falling

Have you been concerned about falls for yourself, or for an aging parent? If so, do you know if any of your medications might be increasing your risk for falls? In its Stay Independent brochure, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends older adults take the following four steps to prevent falls: 1. Regular exercise to improve balance and strength. 2. Review your medications with a healthcare provider. 3. Get your vision and hearing checked annually. 4. Make your home safer by removing tripping hazards. Falls can have serious consequences for older adults, leading to injuries, hospitalizations, and a loss of independence. One important step in fall prevention is to review the medications you or your loved one are taking. Some medications can increase the risk of falls due to side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure. Here are 10 types of medications to review if you’re concerned about falling: 1. Benzodiazepines: These are sedatives used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. They can cause drowsiness and dizziness. 2. Antidepressants: Some antidepressants can affect blood pressure and balance, increasing the risk of falls. 3. Antipsychotics: These medications are used to treat conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, but they can also cause dizziness and orthostatic hypotension. 4. Opioids: Painkillers like oxycodone and hydrocodone can cause drowsiness and confusion. 5. Muscle relaxants: These medications can make you feel drowsy and affect your coordination. 6. Antihistamines: Over-the-counter allergy medications can cause drowsiness and blurred vision. 7. Diuretics: These medications can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which may affect balance. 8. Hypnotics: Prescription sleep aids can cause drowsiness and impair alertness. 9. Anticholinergics: These medications are used to treat conditions like overactive bladder and can cause dizziness and confusion. 10. Blood pressure medications: Some medications for hypertension can cause orthostatic hypotension, leading to dizziness when standing up. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience side effects from these medications, and the benefits of the treatment should always be weighed against the risks. If you have concerns about your medications and their potential impact on your risk of falling, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you review your medications and make any necessary adjustments to reduce your risk of falls. Remember, preventing falls is an important part of staying independent and healthy as you age. By being proactive and staying informed about your medications, you can take steps to protect yourself or your loved ones from the risks of falling.