Could pills many of us take for sleep, allergies, bladder issues, or anxiety nudge our risk of dementia upward? A growing body of research suggests a cautious “maybe.” Large population studies have linked certain anticholinergic drugs (found in many common prescriptions and OTC remedies) and benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety/sleep medicines) with a higher risk of dementia later on. Importantly, these studies show association, not proof of causation—but the signals are strong enough that leading geriatrics guidelines advise minimizing these medicines when safer options exist Bottom line: Don’t stop a medication
There’s more to discover. Continue to the next page for the rest of this article.
