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August 3, 2024
Many of us take an array of medications every day to relieve physical pain, depression, or to help us fall asleep. And a lot of the time, these medications are prescribed to us by medical professionals. So, no harm, no foul, right?
What are anticholinergic medications and what do they do?
Well, wrong actually. Studies have shown that anticholinergic medications, drugs that regulate muscle contractions, are linked to an increased risk of dementia. These drugs work by inhibiting a neurotransmitter in the body, acetylcholine, from sending signals in the nervous system that conduct movement or commands in the body. These medications are used to treat many chronic conditions, including asthma, overactive bladders, insomnia, and muscle spasms.
Are anticholinergic medications a health risk?
In a 10-year study, results showed that 23.2% of total participants developed dementia and 79.9% of those participants that developed dementia also developed Alzheimer’s disease with cumulative anticholinergic drug use. In another, more recent study, it was found that dementia patients were as much as 30% more likely to have used anticholinergic medications for a medical condition than those without dementia.
How do I know if I am taking anticholinergic medications?
So, you might be wondering, am I taking any of these medications? No worries, here is a list of some of the most common anticholinergic medications purchased over the counter or prescribed.
Over the counter anticholinergic medications –
- Brompheniramine
- Dimenhydrinate
- Diphenhydramine – Benadryl, Advil PM, Tylenol PM
- Doxylamine – Unisom
Prescribed anticholinergic medications –
- Benztropine mesylate
- Dicyclomine
- Hyoscyamine
- Ipratropium
- Methscopolamine
- Oxybutynin
- Scopolamine
- Solifenacin
If you think that you are taking any of these medications regularly, speak with your doctor. Many of these anticholinergic medications are used to treat a wide range of conditions and are prescribed or recommended by medical professionals often. If you are concerned about potential risks and side effects related to using these medications, consult your doctor about questions, concerns, or the possibility of exploring new treatment options that might be a good fit for you.