A large study from the University of East Anglia has found a possible link between certain medications and a higher risk of dementia.
This study focused on a group of drugs called anticholinergics. These drugs are commonly used to treat depression, Parkinson’s disease, and bladder problems.
But now, scientists are warning that they might have long-term side effects on the brain.
Anticholinergic drugs work by blocking a chemical in the body called acetylcholine. This chemical helps with muscle movements, memory, and many other important body functions. When this chemical is blocked, it may affect the brain over time—especially in older adults.
To find out more, researchers looked at the health records of nearly 41,000 people who had dementia. They also reviewed the records of about 284,000 people who did not have dementia. All of them were over the age of 65.
The scientists studied which medications these people had taken in the past, including drugs prescribed up to 20 years before any dementia diagnosis.
The results showed that people who had taken a high amount of certain anticholinergic drugs were more likely to develop dementia later in life. The highest risks were linked to some antidepressants and medications for bladder control and Parkinson’s disease.
However, other anticholinergic drugs, like antihistamines or those for stomach cramps, were not linked to an increased dementia risk.
This study is important because it is one of the most detailed studies ever done on this topic. It shows that even medications taken many years ago can have an effect on brain health today.
Because of this, doctors are being encouraged to think more carefully before prescribing these drugs, especially for older patients or those with other risk factors for dementia.
At the same time, people who are currently taking these medications should not stop using them suddenly. Doing so can cause serious health problems. Instead, they should talk to their doctor or pharmacist about their treatment options. There may be other drugs available that do not carry the same risks.
With more than 50 million people living with dementia around the world, and that number expected to grow to 132 million by 2050, understanding the possible causes is more important than ever.
If we can reduce even a small number of cases by changing the way certain medicines are used, that could help millions of people live healthier lives as they age.
This new research reminds us that the choices we make today—about what medicines to take and for how long—can affect our health many years from now. It also highlights the need for open, informed conversations between patients and healthcare providers about the benefits and risks of any long-term treatment.
If you care about dementia, please read studies about Early heart rhythm problem linked to higher dementia risk and findings of Green leafy vegetables may help reduce Alzheimer’s risk.
For more about dementia, please read studies about Research shows an important cause of frontotemporal dementia and findings of New way to detect Lewy body disease early, a leading cause of dementia.
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