Do beta blockers cause falls?
Andrew Mccoy
Updated on January 23, 2026
Conclusion: Our study suggests that use of a nonselective β-blocker, contrary to selective β-blockers, is associated with an increased fall risk in an older population. In clinical practice, β-blockers have been shown effective for a variety of cardiovascular indications.
Does beta-blockers cause fall in elderly?
A recent meta-analysis published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology concluded that the use of non-selective beta-blockers, such as propranolol or carvedilol, in elderly populations is associated with increased risk of falling.What medications increase risk of falls?
Medications that increase your risk of falling
- Anti-anxiety drugs, such as diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan)
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), an older antihistamine. ...
- Prescription medications to treat overactive bladder, such as oxybutynin (Ditropan) and tolterodine (Detrol).
- Tricyclic antidepressants.
What is the most common side effect of beta-blockers?
The most common side effects of beta-blockers are: Fatigue and dizziness. Beta-blockers slow down your heart rate. This can trigger symptoms associated with low blood pressure (hypotension).Can metoprolol cause falls?
Medications that might contribute to hypotension, dizziness, and falls: Metoprolol (which might also contribute to bradycardia) Amlodipine (which might also contribute to ankle edema)How do beta blockers work?
Why do I keep falling down?
Scientists have linked several personal risk factors to falling, including muscle weakness, problems with balance and gait, and blood pressure that drops too much when you get up from lying down or sitting (called postural hypotension).Why do I always fall walking?
This can be caused by dehydration, ageing circulation, medical conditions such as Parkinson's disease and heart conditions and some medications used to treat high blood pressure. inner ear problems – such as labyrinthitis or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) problems with your heart rate or rhythm.What are the negative effects of beta blockers?
Common side effects of all beta blockers include:
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia).
- Low blood pressure (hypotension).
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias).
- Fatigue.
- Dizziness.
- Nausea.
- Insomnia, sleep changes and nightmares.
- Dry mouth or eyes.
What are the dangers of beta blockers?
Beta-blockers can cause some side effects.
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, feeling faint. ...
- Drowsiness or fatigue.
- Unusual swelling of the feet and ankles.
- Wheezing, trouble breathing.
- Depression.
- Nightmares.
- Cold hands and feet.
- Decreased sexual ability.
What should you avoid when taking beta blockers?
While on beta-blockers, you should also avoid eating or drinking products that have caffeine or taking over-the-counter cough and cold medicines, antihistamines, and antacids that contain aluminum. You should also avoid drinking alcohol, because it can decrease the effects of beta-blockers.What medications can affect balance?
That's why it's important to know which commonly prescribed medications have an impact on balance, such as:
- Antidepressants.
- Blood pressure medications.
- Heart medications.
- Anti-anxiety drugs.
- Sleeping aids.
- Antihistamines for allergy relief.
- Prescription and over-the-counter pain relievers.
What are the two most important risk factors for falls?
Common risk factors for fallsThe risk factors considered to have a high association with falls, which are also modifiable, include: the fear of falling. limitations in mobility and undertaking the activities of daily living. impaired walking patterns (gait)