The Silent Risk: Common Medications Linked to Dementia

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This class of drugs poses the most well-documented risk. They work by blocking acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter critical for memory, learning, and muscle function. While this effect can help with conditions like overactive bladder or muscle spasms, in the brain it essentially starves the memory centers of their essential chemical fuel.

  • Long-Term Impact: While short-term use can cause temporary confusion, numerous longitudinal studies have linked chronic use to a significantly increased incidence of diagnosed dementia.

  • Common Examples:

    • First-generation antihistamines: Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), hydroxyzine.

    • Tricyclic antidepressants: Amitriptyline, nortriptyline.

    • Overactive bladder medications: Oxybutynin (Ditropan).

    • Antispasmodics: For stomach cramps and IBS.

2. Benzodiazepines and Sedative-HypnoticsContinue reading…

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