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Definition of Beers criteria
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
Beers criteria: Criteria for safe medication use in older adults -- for people over 65 years of age. First issued in 1991, these criteria have been repeatedly revised and updated. In addition to the benzodiazepines, the Beers criteria (or list) has included amiodarone, amitriptyline, cimetidine, clonidine, disopyramide, indomethacin, ketorolac, meperidine, methyldopa, and many antihistamines, antispasmodics, and muscle relaxants. Named for Dr. M.H. Beers, principal author of the original 1991 criteria.