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Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam/Valium, lorazepam/Ativan)
– Sedation, slowed reflexes, impaired coordination -
Sleep medications (e.g., zolpidem/Ambien, eszopiclone/Lunesta)
– Can cause dizziness, confusion, nighttime falls -
Opioid painkillers (e.g., oxycodone, morphine, hydrocodone)
– Affect brain function and blood pressure -
Antidepressants (especially tricyclics like amitriptyline; also some SSRIs)
– Can cause dizziness or low blood pressure on standing -
Blood pressure medications (e.g., beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, diuretics)
– May cause lightheadedness or orthostatic hypotension -
Antipsychotics (e.g., quetiapine/Seroquel, risperidone)
– Sedation, slowed movement, balance problems -
Anti-seizure medications (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, gabapentin)
– Commonly affect coordination and gait -
Muscle relaxants (e.g., cyclobenzaprine, baclofen)
– Drowsiness and impaired motor control -
Antihistamines (first-generation) (e.g., diphenhydramine/Benadryl)
– Sedating; can cause confusion and poor balance -
Parkinson’s medications (e.g., levodopa/carbidopa)
– Can cause dizziness and sudden drops in blood pressure
Important Notes
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Risk is higher when multiple medications are taken together.
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Alcohol greatly worsens balance side effects.
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Sudden balance loss can also signal inner ear problems, stroke, or nerve damage.
Get Medical Help Urgently If:
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Balance loss is sudden or one-sided
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You have slurred speech, weakness, vision changes
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Falls are occurring
If you want, tell me which medication(s) you’re taking and when the balance problems started, and I can help you figure out what to discuss with your doctor.
