Study: Anticholinergics Increase Fall Risk In Older Men

A new study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older men who take specific commonly used medications have a higher risk of being injured in a fall.

The medications in question are those that have anticholinergic effects, which block the part of the brain that passes messages between nerve cells. These drugs are commonly prescribed to older people to help alleviate bladder problems, depression, psychosis, insomnia and respiratory problems. They can cause blurred vision, increased heart rate, sedation and confusion.

Interestingly, the researchers noted that the use of these drugs did not increase risks for women.

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