A nationwide cohort study conducted in Denmark has revealed that non-selective beta-blocker eye drops (timolol) do not significantly increase the risk of fall-related injuries compared to topical prostaglandin analogue (TPA) eye drops among older adults. The study analyzed registry data from over 124,000 individuals aged 65 and older who initiated treatment with either timolol or TPA between 1996 and 2023. Using propensity score matching to control for baseline characteristics, the researchers assessed hospital-treated fall-related injuries and fractures at 14, 90, and 365 days post-initiation.

The findings indicate no statistically significant differences in fall-related injuries or fractures between timolol and TPA users across the follow-up periods. However, subgroup analyses revealed a marginally significant increase in fall-related injuries among individuals aged 80 and older (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 1.23) and those using three or more fall risk-increasing drugs (IRID 1.20). These results highlight the nuanced relationship between medication use and fall risk, particularly in the oldest segments of the population and those on polypharmacy regimens.

This study emphasizes the necessity for a patient-centered approach in prescribing practices, particularly for older adults who may be at heightened risk for falls. By identifying specific subgroups that may be more vulnerable, such as the elderly and polypharmacy users, clinicians can better tailor treatment plans to mitigate potential risks. The implications extend to drug development and clinical guidelines, suggesting a need for further investigation into the safety profiles of medications commonly prescribed to older adults, particularly those with a high burden of comorbidities.

Source: academic.oup.com