Tag: Anticholinergics

Studies have found that severe psychiatric reactions occur in nearly 6% of patients treated with systemic corticosteroids, and mild to moderate reactions in about 28% [1.4.3]. This highlights a crucial question for patient safety: which drug effect can cause mental health concerns?

Approximately 10% of dementia cases may be caused by reversible drug-induced cognitive impairment, a condition where medications interfere with memory and thought processes. This phenomenon is often mistakenly described as a medication that "stops you from thinking," but it is more accurately understood as a disruption of normal cognitive function.

Estimates suggest that over 10% of patients visiting memory clinics have drug-induced cognitive decline, a condition that can often be mistaken for permanent dementia. While the term "dementia" traditionally implies permanent brain changes, a growing body of evidence shows that many medications and substances can cause reversible cognitive impairment that mimics true dementia. Recognizing this link is crucial for early intervention and potentially reversing the symptoms.

While frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is primarily a neurodegenerative disease with genetic and pathological roots, certain medications and long-term substance abuse can induce cognitive and behavioral symptoms that closely mimic FTD. It is crucial to understand these distinctions, as drug-induced cognitive decline may be reversible in some cases, unlike the progressive nature of true FTD. This article explores the relationship between various drugs, substance misuse, and FTD-like syndromes.

According to the National Institute on Aging, several classes of medication are known to affect older adults' cognition, including certain antihistamines, anti-anxiety, and antidepressant medications. Understanding what drugs make you confused is vital, especially for older individuals and those taking multiple medications, as confusion can be a sign of a serious adverse drug event.

According to a 2015 study in *JAMA Internal Medicine*, older adults taking a strong anticholinergic medication daily for more than three years had an increased risk of developing dementia. This finding highlights a critical topic for geriatric health: understanding what are several common drugs linked to dementia and how long-term use can impact cognitive function.

Affecting up to 30% of individuals aged 65 and older, overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition. A key question for many is, what overactive bladder medication causes dementia, and what are the safer alternatives available today?

The global prevalence of overactive bladder (OAB) is estimated to be 20%, affecting millions of people who seek relief [1.7.2]. If you're wondering what is the best overactive bladder medication with the least side effects, understanding the options is key.

Over 13 million Americans experience overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms, and for many older adults, concerns about cognitive side effects from medication are a significant consideration. Understanding **what overactive bladder medication does not cause dementia** is crucial for making informed decisions about treatment, especially when weighing the benefits against potential long-term cognitive risks associated with some drug classes.

According to MedlinePlus, swelling of the hands, arms, feet, ankles, or lower legs is a potential side effect of the anticholinergic medication oxybutynin. This condition, known as peripheral edema, is a documented but less common reaction to the drug.