All drugs carry side effects and can interact with other medications, affecting balance and increasing your chances of taking a fall.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, common problems include vision changes, dizziness or lightheadedness, drowsiness, and impaired alertness or judgment. Some medications may damage the inner ear, spurring temporary or permanent balance disorders.
Some of the commonly prescribed medications that can affect balance include antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, antihistamines to relieve allergy symptoms, blood pressure and heart medication, pain relievers and sleep aides, both prescriptions and non-prescriptions.
Sometimes the combination of medications may be the problem. Ask your doctor to review the drugs you’re taking, the dose, and the best time to take them.