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Anticholinergic medications are drugs that block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory in the brain and muscle contractions in the body.[1] These medications are used to treat various conditions, including overactive bladder, allergies, and Parkinson's disease.[1] However, they have been linked to an increased risk of dementia, especially with long-term use in older adults.[1]
The link between anticholinergic drugs and dementia has been highlighted in several studies. A report published in JAMA Internal Medicine found a connection between long-term use of anticholinergic medications like Benadryl and an increased risk of dementia.[1] This study tracked nearly 3,500 individuals aged 65 and older and found that those who used anticholinergic drugs were more likely to develop dementia.[1] The risk increased with the cumulative dose; taking an anticholinergic for the equivalent of three years or more was associated with a 54% higher dementia risk.[1] Another study in BMC Geriatrics found that anticholinergic exposure to one, two, three, and four or more medications was associated with a 1.6, 2.1, 2.6, and 2.6 times, respectively, increased risk of a dementia/Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis compared to periods of no ACH exposure.[5]
The American Geriatrics Society recommends avoiding anticholinergic medications in older adults because they are more likely to experience unwanted side effects.[3] These side effects can include confusion, memory loss, and worsening mental function.[3]
The increased risk of dementia associated with anticholinergic use is a significant concern, particularly for older adults. Studies have shown that long-term use of these medications can increase the risk of developing dementia. For example, the JAMA Internal Medicine study found a 54% higher dementia risk for those taking anticholinergics for the equivalent of three years or more.[1] Another study in BMC Geriatrics found that anticholinergic exposure to one, two, three, and four or more medications was associated with a 1.6, 2.1, 2.6, and 2.6 times, respectively, increased risk of a dementia/Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis compared to periods of no ACH exposure.[5]
Authoritative Sources
- Common anticholinergic drugs like Benadryl linked to increased dementia risk. [Harvard Health Publishing]↩
- Anticholinergics. [Healthline]↩
- Anticholinergic exposure and its association with dementia/Alzheimer's disease and mortality in older adults. [BMC Geriatrics]↩
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