Maintaining balance is a complex process involving the brain, inner ear, muscles, and sensory nerves. As we age, this system becomes more vulnerable, and certain medications can disrupt it, leading to dizziness, unsteadiness, or even falls. Understanding which medications may affect balance is crucial, especially for older adults.
1. Benzodiazepines
Used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures, benzodiazepines like diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and alprazolam (Xanax) can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. These side effects increase the risk of imbalance and falls.
2. Antidepressants
Medications such as amitriptyline, fluoxetine (Prozac), and sertraline (Zoloft) can lower blood pressure or affect brain signaling, leading to lightheadedness or unsteadiness, particularly when standing up.
3. Antipsychotics
Drugs like haloperidol (Haldol), risperidone (Risperdal), and olanzapine (Zyprexa) may cause sedation, muscle stiffness, and inner ear dysfunction, all of which can disturb balance.
4. Antihypertensives (Blood Pressure Medications)
Medications such as amlodipine, metoprolol, and lisinopril lower blood pressure. If blood pressure drops too much, especially when changing positions (a condition known as orthostatic hypotension), it can lead to dizziness and loss of balance.
5. Diuretics (“Water Pills”)
