Challenges

Could the drug you take regularly for insomnia, depression, allergies, bladder problems or even the common cold put you at greater risk for mental decline, or even dementia?
For the past decade, a growing number of studies have raised red flags about a common class of medications — called anticholinergics — that are frequently used by older adults.
These drugs, available both over the counter and by prescription, are used for a range of disorders, from hay fever and sleep problems to overactive bladder and Parkinson’s disease.
There’s a long list of medications included in the anticholinergic group — one estimate put it at 600 drugs — but some of the most common are old-school antihistamines like Benadryl (diphenhydramine); sleep aid drugs like Nytol, Advil PM and Tylenol PM, which all contain diphenhydramine; certain antidepressants like Paxil (paroxetine) and Elavil (amitriptyline); and overactive bladder medications like oxybutynin (brand names include Ditropan XL and Oxytrol).
How these drugs may affect your mind and health
Studies show that regularly taking more than one anticholinergic drug, or taking even the minimum effective dose of one anticholinergic for longer than three years, is linked to a higher likelihood of dementia in older adults.
Anticholinergic drugs work by blocking a natural chemical in the brain, called acetylcholine, which helps different types of cells communicate with each other. It’s important for heart rate and certain muscle contractions, and it’s also vital for memory and learning.
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