Sedatives can affect your
balance, coordination and alertness, causing a significant increased risk of falls. Preventing falls can mean saving your bones from fractures and breaks, which can occur easily in people with osteoporosis as the bones are weak and brittle.
Sedatives can cause
drowsiness and dizziness as a side effect and hence increase the risk of falls. Other effects of sedatives include:
- tiredness
- lightheaded or faint
- unsteadiness on your feet
- blurred or double vision
- confusion or not able to think clearly
Sedatives such as
benzodiazepines are more the most dangerous offenders. Benzodiazepines are medications such as Ativan, Halcion, Klonopin, Restoril, Valium, and similar drugs. Although these medications can increase your risk of a fall,
speak to your doctor before you stop taking them.
Other medications that can increase your risk of falls are muscle relaxants and some pain medications. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the medication you are currently taking.
Osteoporosis-Info.com
