Many seniors rely on their local pharmacy for medications used to treat and manage conditions ranging from depression to dementia and chronic pain. Unfortunately, most drugs have some risk of adverse side effects. With specific prescriptions, potential side effects can include an increased risk of falling due to reduced motor control, drowsiness, or other factors. Here are four types of medications associated with an increased risk of falling. 

What Medications Cause Falls?

1. Antidepressants 

Certain types of antidepressants and antianxiety medications, particularly tricyclic varieties with high anti-muscarinic, can increase the risk of falls. Some drugs in this category, like Elavil and Pamelor, are also used to manage nerve pain.

Common antidepressants in this category include Zoloft, Celexa, Lexapro, Paxil, Prozac, Wellbutrin, Effexor, and Remeron. A doctor may sometimes prescribe an older medication, Trazadone, to be used as a sleep aid. 

2. Benzodiazepines 

Doctors may also prescribe benzodiazepines to treat anxiety, though they are most often used as sleep aids or muscle relaxers. They can also treat seizures. Common drugs in this category include Ativan, Klonopin, Valium, Restoril, and Xanax. These can slow nervous system responses and affect memory, increasing the risk of mental or physical harm, particularly in elderly adults.

Stopping these medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you wish to discontinue use due to fall risk or other issues, talk to your doctor and pharmacy for assistance on how to do so safely. 

3. Antipsychotics 

Antipsychotics can be used to treat a range of mental health concerns, including depression, Alzheimer’s, and dementia. Pharmacy medications in this group include Seroquel, Zyprexa, Abilify, and Risperdal. While they can be useful, they can also be dangerous and may cause Parkinsonism, among other side effects.

4. Opioids 

Opiate medications are typically used to treat extreme or chronic pain. Drugs in this category include morphine, hydrocodone, oxycodone, fentanyl, codeine, and methadone.

They block nerve receptors to stop pain signals from traveling to the brain. Unfortunately, they can be highly addictive and have side effects, including drowsiness and decreased muscle coordination. 

If you’d like more information about these or other drugs you’ve been prescribed, turn to Baltimore’s preferred pharmacy, Columbia Hickory Pharmacy. This local drugstore has all of the health essentials, from vaccines and prescription medications to eczema ointments and over-the-counter medicines for allergies, pain, and cold and flu. Call (410) 964-6409 to speak with a pharmacy technician or visit the website to learn more about the store and how they can help you.