Not yet recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Prevalence of Sarcopenia-Promoting Medicines in Patients With Sarcopenia and Falls

This study explores how some commonly used medicines, such as certain pain relievers, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and nerve-calming medications, might be linked to muscle weakness (sarcopenia) and an increased risk of falls in older adults. Muscle weakness can make everyday tasks harder and lead to falls, which are a big concern for many. The research aims to see how often people who have muscle weakness and have experienced falls are taking these specific types of medicines. By understanding this better, doctors can make more informed decisions about prescribing medicines for older people, potentially helping to reduce muscle problems and falls, and ultimately improving their health and independence.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Sponsor

Medway NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

323

Start

01 Sep 2025

Estimated completion

01 Jul 2026

Sarcopenia in Elderly Falls

What is this study about?

Many older people experience muscle weakness, a condition called sarcopenia, which can make them more likely to fall. Falls can be serious, leading to injuries and making it harder to live independently. While we know that not being active and other health problems can contribute to muscle weakness, there's growing interest in understanding if some common medicines might also play a role.

This study is looking into a specific group of medicines that doctors sometimes prescribe, such as certain steroids, medications for high cholesterol, and some used to calm nerves. We want to see how often older people who have muscle weakness and have also fallen are taking these particular medicines. Even though these drugs are often needed for other health conditions, it's important to understand if they could also be affecting muscle strength.

By gathering this information, researchers hope to learn more about the link between these medicines, muscle weakness, and falls. This understanding could help doctors and pharmacists review prescriptions more carefully in the future. The goal is to make sure older people are taking the most appropriate medicines for their health, while also trying to reduce the risk of muscle weakness and falls, helping them stay as healthy and active as possible.

Key takeaways

The study explores links between common medicines, muscle weakness, and falls.
It aims to improve understanding for better prescribing in older adults.
No new medications or treatments are involved for participants.
Participation includes answering questions during a routine clinic visit.
The study focuses on people aged 65 and over with muscle weakness and a history of falls.

Who may be eligible?

To take part in this study, you need to be at least 65 years old. You must also be attending a falls clinic for a new check-up because you've been experiencing falls.

An important part of joining is that you will have already been diagnosed with muscle weakness, known as sarcopenia. You'll also need to have fallen at least once in the past year.

However, you can't join if you have memory problems that make it hard to understand and agree to take part, or if you are very unwell at the moment. Also, if you're already taking part in another research study, you won't be able to join this one.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 65 years old or older?
Are you attending a falls clinic for a new assessment?
Have you been told you have muscle weakness (sarcopenia)?
Have you fallen in the last 12 months?
Do you feel well enough to answer questions and take part?
Are you currently enrolled in any other research studies?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

This study does not involve taking new medications or treatments. Your involvement would primarily include answering some questions at your falls clinic appointment. These questions might cover your muscle strength, how easily you can get up from a chair, and any falls you've had. You might also have simple physical tests, like measuring your hand grip or how quickly you can walk a short distance. The research team will also look at the list of medications you currently take. This information will be collected during your regular clinic visit and will help us understand more about the links between medicines, muscle strength, and falls. There are no additional visits required beyond your scheduled clinic appointment.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study involves very minimal risk as you won't be given any new treatments or asked to do anything beyond what you might do in a standard falls clinic assessment. There are no direct personal benefits from taking part, but the information collected will help doctors and researchers better understand how certain medicines might affect muscle strength and falls in older people. This could lead to better care for other patients in the future. You are free to ask questions at any time and can choose to withdraw from the study at any point without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Medway NHS Foundation Trust
Verified postcode
Gillingham, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is sarcopenia?

Sarcopenia is the medical term for age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, which can make daily activities harder and increase the risk of falls.

What kind of medicines are you looking at?

We are looking at common medicines like certain steroids, cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins), and some medicines used to calm nerves or treat mental health conditions.

Do I have to take any new medicine for this study?

No, this study does not involve taking any new medications. We are only interested in the medicines you are already prescribed.

Will my doctor know I'm in the study?

Yes, your medical team at the falls clinic will be aware of your participation, as the information is gathered during your regular appointment.

How long will my involvement take?

Your involvement will take place during your existing falls clinic appointment and won't require extra time or additional visits.

How to find out more

Kamaldeep K Sahota, Pharmacist

kamaldeep.sahota1@nhs.net 441634976610 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.