Health BFU warns of risk of falls due to medication
Certain medications can increase the risk of falls in older people. The danger increases even more if alcohol is also involved, as the Swiss Council for Accident Prevention (BFU) wrote in a press release on Tuesday.
20.08.2024, 11:14
SDA
"Many people are not aware that certain medications can increase the risk of falling because they impair concentration, vision and balance," Eva Stocker, research associate at the BFU, was quoted as saying in the press release. As examples, she mentioned certain antidepressants, sleeping pills and tranquilizers as well as some cardiovascular drugs and non-prescription drugs, for example anti-allergy drugs. The use of several medications would also increase the risk of falling, the press release continues.
According to the BFU, the consumption of alcohol can increase the undesirable side effects of medication. This further increases the risk of accidents. Every year, 1600 older adults lose their lives due to falls in everyday life, the press release continued. A further 7100 are seriously injured as a result of falls.
To prevent accidents, the advice center recommended consulting a doctor and paying attention to a balanced diet and physical training for strong muscles and bones.
