Certain Drugs Increase Risk of Falling Among Elderly

University of North Carolina researchers say some prescription drugs that increase the risk of falling among older patients. The medications include common seizure drugs, antidepressants, and painkillers.

Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries in adults 65 and older. An estimated 300,000 hip fractures occur each year, often as a result of falling. Head injury is also a problem among adults who fall.

Adults who take four or more medications at a time are at highest risk for falling. But certain types of drugs can also make someone more prone to falling, said Susan Blalock, an associate professor at the U.N.C. Eshelman School of Pharmacy.

The complete list is available as a PDF here.