When used properly, medicines can reduce the need for surgery and hospital care or make them unnecessary, prevent premature death, and help you to live independently.

Improper use of medicines, however, may pose significant risks for older people. All drugs can have side effects, even nonprescription medicines. And not all medicines can be taken together safely. It is important for you to know the correct doses of all your medicines, what side effects to watch for, and whether all your medicines are safe when taken together.

In order for your medicines to work best for you, it is helpful to tell your doctor or health care provider all the medicines you are taking, including nonprescription (over- the-counter) drugs.

The following medicines that are widely used by many older adults may present special concerns.

Nonprescription (Over-the-Counter, or OTC) Medicines

Ask your doctor to help you determine the proper dosage of OTC medicines you are taking. The amounts recommended on the package may be too high, especially when mixed with prescription medicines. Do not take strong laxatives (which stimulate bowel movements) regularly without a doctor's advice. Overuse of laxatives can cause dependence on them. Discuss regular use of vitamins or pain medicine such as aspirin or ibuprofen with your doctor.

Diuretic Medicines

Diuretics or 'water pills' lower the amount of water in the body, which reduces the workload of the heart and arteries. Diuretics are used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. They may increase your chances of falling. They increase the flow of urine and can lead to loss of potassium and other minerals from your body. Symptoms of potassium deficiency include: weakness, loss of appetite, irregular heartbeat, constipation, or muscle cramps. If you think your diuretic medication may be causing any of these problems, talk to your doctor.

Other Blood Pressure Medicines

Blood pressure medicines may make you feel depressed, drowsy, or suddenly faint, especially when you try to stand up.

Vasodilators

These medicines widen blood vessels and lower blood pressure. They cause pooling of blood in your legs. If you are taking a vasodilator such as nitroglycerin, your chances of falling may be increased. If you take this medicine, you should be sitting down when you use it. Stand slowly and carefully after you use it.

Digoxin

Digoxin is prescribed to improve the strength and efficiency of the heart. It can also be used to regulate a fast heartbeat. Digoxin can lead to side effects if the dosage is too high. Toxic levels of the medicine may build up. Symptoms of toxicity may include nausea and vomiting, extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, vision problems, irregular or slow heartbeat, and psychological disturbances.

Sleeping Pills, Medications for Anxiety or Schizophrenia, and Antipsychotic Medicines

If you are an older adult, you are more likely to have adverse effects from these drugs. Sleeping pills can cause severe mental confusion or even psychosis if taken in excess. Medicines for anxiety or nerves can lessen the stress of everyday life and may cause drowsiness, shakiness, and confusion. Any of these drugs can increase your chances of falling and may be habit-forming if taken for long periods.

If you think you may be having problems with these or any other medicines you are taking, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.