Elderly care experts have issued a warning over combinations of medications that could put people at risk of serious side effects.
06:59, 03 Sep 2025Updated 09:52, 03 Sep 2025
Two million over-65s take at least seven types of medication(Image: Getty)
Health experts are warning that mixing common medications – including many over-the-counter drugs – could put people at risk of serious side effects. This includes treatments for conditions like colds, allergies, heart disease, and diabetes.
A study by the Nuffield Trust found that only 41% of people felt fully informed about the potential side effects of their medications, while 30% reported they weren’t told anything at all. With nearly two million people over 65 taking at least seven prescribed medications daily, officials say that this is a growing concern.
Lee Cartwright, an expert from Mobility Solutions Direct, highlighted some of the most dangerous medication combinations that older adults should be aware of, reports the Mirror.
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Furosemide and Indapamide (heart condition medications)
“Medications prescribed for heart conditions such as heart failure or high blood pressure, like furosemide or indapamide, can cause sudden drops in blood pressure,” Lee noted.
This means that patients will need to make sure that they stay hydrated. For older people, this can become risky quite quickly.
Lee continued: “If, for example, someone taking these tablets begins sweating more than usual, their blood pressure can fall sharply, raising the likelihood of dizziness and falls.”
Metformin (Type 2 Diabetes) + Furosemide (heart)
A common treatment for Type 2 Diabetes, Lee shared that Metformin can cause a serious condition called lactic acidosis if the patient becomes dehydrated.
Symptoms include:
Extreme tirednessMuscle painNauseaCramps
Lee stated: “When metformin is taken alongside heart medication such as furosemide, the risks are heightened, particularly in older patients, as dehydration can quickly make them more vulnerable to falls.”
Antihistamines (hay fever) + Benzodiazepines (anxiety/sleep)
According to Lee, although many hay fever medications are effective for easing symptoms through antihistamines; they are also known to cause drowsiness.
“If older Brits are already unsteady on their feet, combining these with other sedating medications can increase the risk of falls,” Lee pointed out.
“Benzodiazepines such as temazepam, diazepam and nitrazepam, which are commonly prescribed for anxiety or sleep problems, can add to drowsiness and confusion. Using these medications together should therefore be approached with care.”
SSRIs (antidepressants) + Decongestants (cold/flu)
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine, sertraline or citalopram, are widely used to treat depression and anxiety, but this can prompt drowsiness, slower reactions and confusion.
“When combined with decongestants found in cold and flu products, like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine, they can also affect blood pressure, sleep and mood,” Lee said. “Without proper monitoring, this interaction may result in unusual behaviour that can be distressing both for the patient and those around them.”
Multiple medications (SSRIs, sedatives, antihistamines)
“When confusion and slower reactions set in, the risks to a person’s safety rise considerably,” Lee said.
“They may misjudge their environment, take unnecessary risks, or, in more severe cases, fail to recognise or treat injuries.
“This danger is particularly acute for people living with dementia or Alzheimer’s, as medication side effects can add to existing vulnerabilities.”
What to do if you experience side effects
Lee stated: “Medication-related confusion may cause sudden changes in behaviour such as irritability, aggression, altered personality, rambling speech, or difficulty concentrating.
“Keep a careful eye on those showing these symptoms, as they may be more vulnerable to accidents.”
In order to reduce risks, Lee recommend to take practical steps within the home, such as:
Loose rugs: try securing rug edges with tapePoor lighting on stairs: add lighting or change bulbsSlippery floors: install non-slip mats in bathrooms and kitchens
“While the prospect of falls can understandably be worrying, the key point is that straightforward, preventative action can make all the difference,” Lee said. “By addressing these risks early, older adults can remain safe and independent in their own homes for longer.”