Use Medication Wisely

Taking three or more medications a day can increase your risk of falling.

Common medications that can affect your balance include those for

• Sleep, anxiety and depression
• Heart and blood pressure
• Dementia symptoms
• Arthritis and pain
• Bladder control
• Digestive, stomach and nausea
• Colds, flu and allergies

What you can do

• Have a medication review with your pharmacist every year
• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about possible side effects of prescription, over the counter or natural health products
• Read directions carefully so you're aware of potential reactions with other medications
• Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist if you experience drowsiness, dizziness, unsteadiness or blurred vision.
• Keep an up-to-date list of all your prescription and non-prescription medicines. Take this list to all your medical appointments.
• Ask your pharmacist about easy ways to organize your medications.
• Take your expired or unused medications to your pharmacy for safe disposal.