The findings reported in a study in the July 13, 2010 issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
Researchers report that drugs, called anticholinergics, block acetylcholine, a nervous system neurotransmitter, and are widely-used medical therapies. They are sold over the counter under various brand names such as Benadryl, Dramamine, Excedrin PM, Sominex, Tylenol PM, and Unisom. Other anticholinergic drugs, such as Paxil, are available only by prescription.
Older adults most commonly use drugs with anticholinergic effects as sleep aids and to relieve bladder leakage problems.
Researchers from Indiana University School of Medicine conducted a six-year observational study, evaluating 1,652 Indianapolis area African-Americans over the age of 70 who had normal cognitive function when the study began. In addition to monitoring cognition, the investigators tracked all over-the-counter and prescription medications taken by study participants.
The scientists found that taking one anticholinergic significantly increased an individual’s risk of developing mild cognitive impairment . Taking two of these drugs doubled this risk.
Posted by the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance
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