Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Beers Criteria?
The Beers Criteria is a list published by the American Geriatrics Society that identifies medications that are potentially inappropriate for adults 65 and older because the risks may outweigh the benefits. It is updated every few years and is widely used by pharmacists and doctors to review older adults' medication lists. It is a screening tool, not a ban — sometimes a listed drug is still the right choice.
Should I stop a medication that is on the list?
No — never stop a prescribed medication on your own. Some drugs, such as benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medicines, can cause serious problems if stopped abruptly. Instead, bring the question to your doctor or pharmacist and ask whether a safer alternative or a gradual reduction makes sense.
Which common drugs are on the list?
Examples include first-generation antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), benzodiazepines and 'Z-drug' sleep aids, certain bladder medicines with strong anticholinergic effects, long-term daily NSAIDs in people with kidney, heart, or stomach risk, and certain muscle relaxants. The list is long and changes over time, so ask a pharmacist to check your specific medicines.
Does Medicare offer a medication review?
Many Part D plans offer a Medication Therapy Management (MTM) program that includes a yearly comprehensive medication review with a pharmacist or other professional for members who meet the plan's criteria, such as multiple chronic conditions and multiple Part D drugs. Your Annual Wellness Visit also includes a review of your current medications. Ask your plan or pharmacist whether you qualify.
How often should seniors review their medications?
At least once a year, and any time there is a hospitalization, a new prescriber, a new symptom such as dizziness or confusion, or a fall. Bring every prescription, over-the-counter product, and supplement to the review.
Older adults take more medications than any other age group — and the body's handling of drugs changes with age. Kidneys clear drugs more slowly, the brain becomes more sensitive to sedating medicines, and the risk of falls and confusion rises. The Beers Criteria helps flag medicines worth a second look.
This article is educational. Do not stop or change any prescribed medication without talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
Categories Worth Asking About
Sedating Antihistamines
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl and many 'PM' sleep products) and similar first-generation antihistamines can cause confusion, dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, and falls in older adults. Safer options exist for allergies and often for sleep problems.
Benzodiazepines and 'Z-Drug' Sleep Aids
Drugs such as lorazepam, diazepam, alprazolam, and zolpidem increase the risk of falls, fractures, confusion, and car crashes in older adults. If you take one regularly, ask about a plan to reduce it gradually — do not stop suddenly.
Strongly Anticholinergic Medicines
Some bladder medicines, older antidepressants, and certain other drugs block acetylcholine, which can worsen memory and thinking. If you notice new forgetfulness after starting a medication, mention it.
Long-Term Daily Pain Relievers (NSAIDs)
Regular ibuprofen or naproxen can raise the risk of stomach bleeding, kidney problems, high blood pressure, and heart failure, particularly in people with existing kidney, heart, or stomach conditions or those taking blood thinners. Topical options or acetaminophen are often safer first steps for joint pain.
Acid Reducers Taken for Years
Proton pump inhibitors are very useful for some conditions, but long-term use without a clear reason is associated with risks such as bone loss and infection. Ask whether you still need yours.
How to Run Your Own Medication Review
- Gather everything: prescriptions, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements
- Write each one with its purpose and the prescriber
- Bring the full list (or the bottles) to your pharmacist or doctor
- Ask: "Do I still need this? Is there a safer alternative for someone my age? Could any of these be contributing to dizziness, confusion, or falls?"
- Ask whether you qualify for your Part D plan's Medication Therapy Management program
- Never stop a prescribed medicine without professional guidance
- Bring every pill, patch, and supplement to a yearly review
- Report new confusion, dizziness, or falls — medications are a common cause
- Ask about Part D Medication Therapy Management
- Keep one up-to-date medication list in your wallet
→ How to Organize Medications Safely
→ 7 Ways to Lower Drug Costs
→ Annual Wellness Visit Guide