Prescription medications are a common part of many people’s daily lives, especially for those age 65 or older. Research shows that 5 out of 6 people in this age group take at least one potentially dangerous prescription, and nearly half take three or more of these medications. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most dangerous prescriptions out there, which all carry the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) highest warning, known as a black box warning.
Type 2 Diabetes Medications: Actos®, Avandia®
These drugs are designed to help patients with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar levels by reducing insulin resistance. Unfortunately, they have been linked to increased risks of heart attack and stroke. For more information on these risks, check out this article by Harvard Medical School discussing the many side effects of these medications.
Antibiotics: Cipro® (black box), Zithromax®, Factive® (black box), Keflex® (amoxicillin, erythromycin, clarithromycin, tetracycline)
Although there are over 100 types of antibiotics, these are some of the more popular ones prescribed by healthcare providers. Despite their widespread use, they have been linked to instances of muscle and joint pain.
Blood Thinners: Coumadin® (warfarin)
Intended to increase circulation and break down blood clots, this blood thinner can actually cause blood clots and dangerous interactions with other medications. For more information on the risks of blood thinners, check out this American Heart Association article.
Bladder Control Drugs: Detrol®, Ditropan®
These medications are meant to reduce urinary incontinence and overactive bladder, but they have been linked to a variety of side effects including chest pain, weight gain, hallucinations, painful urination, dizziness, migraines, and joint pain.
Osteoporosis Drugs: Fosamax®, Actonel®
While claiming to maintain bone health, these drugs have actually been found to double the risk of developing heart conditions in patients, mainly women. A study in the New England Journal of Medicine reported these startling findings.
Cholesterol Drugs: Lipitor®, Zocor®, Pravachol®, Zetia®, Vytorin®, Crestor®
These cholesterol-lowering medications, or “statins,” are designed to help lower cholesterol levels in the body. However, they have been linked to muscle damage, liver damage, memory loss, digestive distress, and an increased risk of blood sugar problems. The national institute of health highlights more potential side effects of cholesterol medications.
Blood Pressure Medication: Norvasc®
This medication is intended to help control high blood pressure, chest pain, and unclog arteries, but it has been linked to low blood pressure, extreme dizziness, and a decreased libido.
Prostate Treatment Drugs: Proscar®, Flomax®
While meant to treat an enlarged prostate, these drugs have been linked to the very prostate problems they are supposed to treat. They can also lead to liver damage and a decrease in libido.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Medications: Prilosec®, Nexium®
These proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are used to treat the symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn and acid reflux. Risks associated with these medications include abdominal pain, diarrhea, migraines, bone loss, and vitamin deficiencies. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases provides more information about these medications and their side effects.
Beta Blockers: Toprol XL® (black box), Zebeta®
Belonging to a class of drugs called beta blockers, Toprol XL and Zebeta are used to treat high blood pressure and increase blood circulation. However, they have been known to cause extremely irregular heartbeat, fainting or dizzy spells, increased depression, and numbing sensations in the hands and feet.
Antidepressants: Zoloft®, Paxil®, Prozac®, Wellbutrin®, Lexapro®
These antipsychotic medications are intended to treat depression and have been associated with increased risks of migraines, abdominal pain, muscle pain, nausea, insomnia, diarrhea, and sexual dysfunction.
It is crucial to be aware of the potential risks and side effects of any medication you take. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any prescriptions, and discuss alternative treatment options. In many cases, lifestyle changes and natural remedies can be just as effective in managing health conditions without the need for potentially dangerous medications.
