There are at least 81 medications associated with a higher risk of falls.
In one particular study, 95% of patients who had a history of falls were taking at least one high-risk medication.
The most common drugs associated with falls are lorazepam (trade name Ativan, an anti-anxiety and sedative) and zopiclone (a sleeping pill much like Lunesta). Other medications such as Xanax/alprazolam, Klonopin/clonazepam, and Valium/diazepam have similar effects on patients, and fall risks should be considered when an individual is on such medication.
Fall rates are directly related to the number of psychotropic (mind-altering) medications a patient is on if two or more such medications are used at the same time. People at risk for falls should have their medication reevaluated by their care professional if they are on two or more psychotropic drugs.
Benzodiazepines (like Xanax, Ativan, etc.) have been shown to increase the risk of falls after repeated and long term use.
This is the third part of a four-part series on fall traumatic falls injuries in nursing homes. To see the preceding posts in this four-part series on fall traumatic falls injuries in nursing homes, click on the links below:
- Traumatic Fall Injuries in Nursing Homes – Part 1
- Falls Risks: Assessing Internal and External Risk Factors — Part 2
- Leading Causes of Falls –Part 3
If you believe your loved one has been harmed due to a nursing home’s neglect, take action now and contact the Kosieradzki • Smith Law Firm online or call us toll-free at (877) 552-2873 to set up a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.
