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Medications and multiple falls in elderly people: the St Louis OASIS study
R G Cumming1, J P Miller, J L Kelsey
1Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032.
Age and Ageing
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Certain medications increase fall risk in older adults. Diuretics, laxatives, and diazepam are linked to multiple falls, necessitating caution in elderly prescriptions.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Geriatric Medicine
- Pharmacoepidemiology
Background:
- Falls are a significant health concern for elderly individuals, leading to injury and reduced independence.
- Medication use is common in older adults and may contribute to fall risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between commonly used medications and the risk of falls in community-dwelling elderly individuals.
- To identify specific drug classes that are significant risk factors for falls in this population.
Main Methods:
- A stratified random sample of 1358 functionally independent elderly individuals (aged 65+) was recruited.
- Data on falls, medication use, and potential confounders were collected and analyzed using statistical methods, including odds ratios.
Main Results:
- 27% of participants reported at least one fall in the past year, and 8% reported two or more falls.
- After adjusting for confounders, diazepam, diltiazem, diuretics, and laxatives were identified as significant risk factors for multiple falls.
Conclusions:
- Prescribers should exercise caution when prescribing diuretics and psychotropic medications, particularly diazepam, to elderly patients.
- Further research is needed to evaluate the safety of diltiazem in the elderly population regarding fall risk.
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