Beers Criteria: What Seniors Need to Know About Risky Medications

When you’re over 65, some common prescriptions can do more harm than good. That’s where the Beers Criteria, a regularly updated list of potentially inappropriate medications for older adults. Also known as the AGS Beers Criteria, it’s a tool used by doctors and pharmacists to flag drugs that increase risks like confusion, falls, kidney damage, and even dementia in seniors. It’s not about banning these meds—it’s about knowing when they’re unnecessary or when safer choices exist.

The anticholinergic drugs, medications that block acetylcholine, a key brain chemical. Also known as anticholinergics, it are a big part of the Beers list. Think Benadryl for allergies, certain sleep aids, and even some antidepressants like amitriptyline. These can cause brain fog, dry mouth, constipation, and memory problems—especially when taken long-term or mixed with other meds. Combine them with a tricyclic antidepressant or an over-the-counter cold pill, and you’re risking polypharmacy, the dangerous practice of taking five or more medications at once. Also known as medication overload, it , which is behind many hospital visits in older adults. The Beers Criteria helps spot these combos before they cause harm.

It’s not just about avoiding bad drugs—it’s about asking better questions. If you or a loved one is on a medication listed in the Beers Criteria, ask: Is this still needed? Is there a safer alternative? Can we lower the dose? Many seniors are on meds they don’t even need anymore, like long-term benzodiazepines for sleep or older antihistamines for allergies. The medication safety, the practice of using drugs in a way that minimizes harm and maximizes benefit. Also known as drug safety, it tools you’ll find in the posts below—from printable medication lists to guides on switching from brand to generic—help you take control. You’ll see real examples of how people avoided side effects by replacing risky drugs with safer ones, how to spot hidden anticholinergic overload, and why some "helpful" supplements can make things worse. This isn’t theoretical. These are the choices real people make every day to stay healthy, independent, and clear-headed as they age.