A recent medical study shows that nursing home residents, including those in Tucson, that take SSRI antidepressants have an increased risk of having a fall that causes injury. SSRI antidepressants include often prescribe drugs such as Celexa, Lexapro, Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, and Viibryd.
Doctors believe that these drugs contribute to falls because they cause daytime drowsiness, sedation, dizziness, and loss of motor control. The chance of having a fall in a Tucson nursing home that causes injury increases the more that these medicines are taken. Doctors call this a dose dependent relationship.
This is an important new study because many patients that are in nursing homes are prescribed these medications. Often, elderly, sick patients are depressed. These medications can be an important part of their treatment.
Falls are a major source of Tucson nursing home neglect and injury. Based on this new research, it is important for Tucson nursing homes and physicians to be aware of this potential side effect, and take the necessary precautions to avoid falls and potentially take other measures to avoid prescription of these popular medicines.
If you have concerns that your loved one was subjected to nursing home neglect or abuse in the Tucson, Arizona area, please do not hesitate to contact Jim Campbell, at 520-545-1675.
For more information see: SSRIs Boost Risk of Falls in Dementia Patients.
By Jim Campbell
If you have concerns that your loved one was subjected to nursing home neglect or abuse in the Tucson, Arizona area, please do not hesitate to contact Jim Campbell, at 520-545-1675.
For more information see: SSRIs Boost Risk of Falls in Dementia Patients.
By Jim Campbell
