Can Medications Increase Fall Risk? What Veterans Should Know

​Many veterans strive to maintain independence at home, but certain health factors can increase the risk of falls. Sometimes, these risks come from an unexpected source—medications. A moment of dizziness, an unsteady step, or a sudden loss of balance can happen without warning, and prescription or over-the-counter drugs are often a contributing factor.

Some medications impact coordination, alertness, and blood pressure, making movements less stable. Understanding which medications pose a risk can help veterans take steps to stay safer at home.

Medications That May Contribute to Falls

1. Sleep Aids & Sedatives

Medications designed to promote relaxation or sleep can lead to grogginess, delayed reactions, and unsteady movements.

Common types include:

• Benzodiazepines (such as Ativan, Xanax, or Valium)
• Prescription sleep medications like Ambien or Lunesta
• Over-the-counter sleep aids containing diphenhydramine (such as Benadryl and Tylenol PM)

2. Blood Pressure & Heart Medications

While essential for managing heart health, some medications can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing, leading to dizziness or fainting.

Examples include:

• Beta-blockers (like Metoprolol or Atenolol)
• Diuretics (such as Furosemide or Hydrochlorothiazide)
• ACE inhibitors (including Lisinopril or Enalapril)

3. Antidepressants & Anxiety Medications

Many veterans rely on these medications for mental health support, but they can also affect coordination and increase the likelihood of falls.

Common examples:

• SSRIs (such as Prozac, Lexapro, or Zoloft)
• Tricyclic antidepressants like Amitriptyline or Nortriptyline

4. Pain Relievers (Opioids & NSAIDs)

Managing chronic pain is critical, but some pain medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness.

Medications to be aware of:

• Prescription opioids like Hydrocodone, Morphine, or Oxycodone
• NSAIDs in high doses (such as Naproxen or Ibuprofen)

5. Diabetes Treatments

Low blood sugar can cause weakness, confusion, and even fainting, making falls more likely for veterans managing diabetes.

Examples include:

• Insulin
• Sulfonylureas (such as Glipizide or Glyburide)

6. Antipsychotics & Seizure Medications

Certain medications used to manage psychiatric conditions or seizures can impact balance and reaction time.

Common examples include:

• Antipsychotics (such as Risperdal, Seroquel, or Haldol)
• Anti-seizure medications like Gabapentin or Carbamazepine

Steps Veterans Can Take to Reduce Fall Risk

When medication side effects pose a concern, there are practical ways to help minimize the chance of a fall.

✔️ Discuss Medication Concerns with a Healthcare Provider – Veterans experiencing dizziness or instability may benefit from adjustments to their prescriptions.
✔️ Move Slowly When Standing – Rising gradually from a sitting or lying position can help prevent sudden drops in blood pressure.
✔️ Enhance Home Safety – Mounting grab bars, improving lighting, and adding accessibility solutions such as stairlifts can significantly reduce fall hazards.

The Bottom Line

Medications are essential for treating many conditions, but they can also contribute to fall risks. Veterans who take proactive steps—by staying informed, consulting healthcare providers, and making home modifications—can improve safety and maintain independence.