Medicines That May Cause Lightheadedness or Vertigo

Overview

Many prescription and nonprescription medicines can make you feel lightheaded or affect your balance. A few examples are:

  • Antibiotics.
  • Blood pressure medicines.
  • Medicines used to treat depression or anxiety.
  • Pain medicines.
  • Medicines used to treat cancer (chemotherapy).

If you think a prescription or nonprescription medicine may be causing your lightheadedness or vertigo, call your doctor.

Credits

Current as of: March 1, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine