Question 396 of 433
Can common medications harm my memory?
The short answer
Yes. A group called anticholinergics, which includes many over-the-counter sleep aids and allergy pills, is linked to confusion and a higher risk of dementia with long-term use.
The best-known example is diphenhydramine, the ingredient in most “PM” products. Some bladder medicines, older antidepressants, and muscle relaxants are in the same family. Sedatives such as benzodiazepines add fall risk. If you are over 60, ask your doctor or pharmacist to check your list for these.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
ROBUST for acute anticholinergic cognitive effects; OBSERVATIONAL for long-term dementia associations.Evidence grade (draft mapping)CObservationalARobust human trialsPart 27, Q396 · Part sources
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.