Some Medicine May Raise Fall Risky
As women age, they’re more likely
to fall. In fact, more than a third of
people older than 65 fall every year.
Medications—both prescription and
over-the-counter—can cause problems
that may lead to falls. Here’s
what you need to know.
Some medications cause side effects like dizziness or light-headedness that impair balance or coordination. Others may affect attention or reflexes, or cause confusion or sleepiness. Interactions between drugs also can be to blame.
Medications that may increase your chances of falling include:
- Blood pressure pills
- Heart medicines
- Diuretics, or water pills
- Muscle relaxants
- Sleeping pills
- Tranquilizers
- Antidepressants and other drugs for mental illness
Check with your doctor if you suspect any of your medications are hampering balance or coordination. Never stop taking prescription medication without talking with your doctor first.
To help prevent falls, take all your medicines—including prescription and nonprescription drugs—to your doctor for review. Also include any herbs or nutritional supplements you regularly use.
