Falls can cause a number of unintentional injuries and in older adults, they come with an added risk. New research highlights a critical factor that can increase the risk of falls. As per an article in JAMA Health Forum, certain prescription drugs affect the brain and lead to an increased risk of fall.These medications can make people drowsy and lead to impaired balance coordination. The more concerning issue is that as per the opinion piece, these drugs have been heavily prescribed to older adults in recent decades. The four classes of medications that can increase the risk of fall are:
- Opioids- oxycodone, Hydromorphone
- Benzodiazepines- Hydromorphone, Alprazolam
- Gabapentinoids- Neurontin, Horizant, Gralise
- Antidepressants- Citalopram, Sertraline
These highlighted drugs affect the brain function, by making the individuals feel sleepy, dizzy, or confused. These mental and physical effects can leave the individuals more vulnerable to falling. Warning signs that may signal fall risk
- Daytime sleepiness
- Memory lapses
- Confusion
- Blurred vision
- Sudden dizziness
Older adults are the most vulnerable group in this case. Is there a way to prevent this“Despite recent efforts to reduce the use of these drugs in older people, it’s still a serious problem,” says Dr. Sarah Berry, chief of gerontology at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. As per Harvard Health, for those taking these medications, abruptly stopping from taking them can complicate things. Consulting with a healthcare professional is the foremost step as it can provide clarity regarding the necessity of these drugs. Medications are crucial, but side effects deserve equal attention and should be addressed timely.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice, treatment or diagnosis.
