Sedatives pose risk for elderly

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

For older people the risks of sleeping pills and other sedatives outweigh the benefits.
Sleep disorders are not uncommon as we get older. Sleeping pills and other sedatives are effective but, as a new study shows, are linked to certain risks. Researchers in Toronto, Canada, analyzed 24 studies covering nearly 2,500 people taking sedatives including antihistamines and benzodiazepines.

They found that many individuals experience side effects such as dizziness, loss of balance, falls and disorientation. In fact, the side effects seem to be greater than the potential benefits. Improved quantity and quality of sleep is however, important. The researchers therefore suggest that doctors and patients work towards non-drug methods of tackling insomnia.

Source
British Medical Journal 12th November 2005

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