Prescription Medications with Increased Fall Risk (pdf)
Ten Medications Older Adults should Avoid (pdf)
Medications are a risk factor for falling. Older adults do not metabolize medications as well as younger people. Many medications have side effects such as dizziness and loss of balance or coordination. These medications can also cause a drop in blood pressure or are sedating. The American and British Geriatrics Society clinical guidelines for fall prevention recommend that all medications be reviewed and medication dosages minimized if possible. A reduction in the total number of medications or dose of medication should be pursued. It is recommended that all psychoactive drugs (including sedatives, anti-psychotics, anti-anxiolytics and anti-depressants) be minimized or withdrawn. Older adults should also be screened for alcohol use since alcohol can interact with medications and increase the risk of falling.
Drugs used for diseases/conditions and their side effects that may increase the risk of falling:
- Blood pressure, angina, Parkinson’s, heart disease, urine output (diuretics) - may cause a decrease in blood pressure that can cause dizziness and fainting. Diuretics can result in electrolyte imbalances and lead to weakness.
- Allergies-can cause drowsiness, sedation, confusion and loss of coordination.
- Mental health- can cause drowsiness, loss of coordination, slowing of reactions and confusion.
- Blood sugar-blood sugar may drop too low causing confusion, dizziness and loss or coordination.
- Blood clotting problems-bleeding can be increased and the resulting anemia could cause fainting, weakness and dizziness.
- Pain medications-can cause sedation, loss of coordination, confusion and slowing of reactions.