Investigators evaluated the association between fall risk–increasing drugs (FRIDs) and injurious falls in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) near the end of life. Results indicated that 30% of enrolled patients experienced an injurious fall, with higher fall risk linked to prescriptions for anticonvulsants, benzodiazepines, and tricyclic antidepressants. Patients with falls were more likely to be Black, unmarried, and Medicaid-enrolled, and also had a higher prevalence of comorbidities. The study highlighted the role of FRIDs in increasing fall risk among patients with COPD, emphasizing the need for targeted deprescribing strategies and interdisciplinary collaboration to reduce fall risk while managing symptoms.
Medication Burden and Injurious Falls Among Patients With COPD
Conexiant
January 29, 2025