Some medicines have side effects that can affect your balance and concentration and slow your reaction times. These things can increase your risk of falls. The risk is greater when a combination of these medicines is used together. Studies have shown that taking 5 or more medicines per day greatly increases falls risk. Other medicines that lower your blood glucose or blood pressure can also increase the risk of falls.
Older adults also respond to medicines differently. As we age, our metabolism slows down, medicines stay in your body longer and your body becomes more sensitive to the effects of some medicines.