Four types of 'common' pills linked to dementia including antihistamine meds

A health expert has said that four types of tablets, some commonly used to treat everyday illnesses and conditions, could be linked to the onset of dementia. Dr Eric Berg DC suggests that prolonged use of these drugs may increase your risk of developing this complex medical condition.

Dr Berg, author of the best-selling book The Healthy Keto Plan and Director of Dr Berg Nutritionals, no longer practices but dedicates his time to health education via social media. His YouTube channel boasts an impressive 13 million subscribers.

Dementia is not a single disease but a complex condition characterised by a decline in cognitive functions such as memory, thought processes, and reasoning, which can significantly impact daily life. It stems from various brain disorders, with Alzheimer's disease being the most common.

Typical symptoms include memory loss, confusion, language and problem-solving difficulties, and behavioural changes. Different types of dementia have different causes, and there isn't a one-size-fits-all cure for all forms of the syndrome.

Early detection and diagnosis are key. If you or someone you know is struggling with memory or cognitive functions, it's crucial to consult a doctor for a diagnosis and explore potential treatment options, reports Surrey Live. Dr Berg's list of medications potentially linked to dementia includes the following.

According to a health expert, certain medications, including some antihistamines and specific drugs for depression and an overactive bladder, known as anticholinergic medications, can inhibit acetylcholine. This neurotransmitter is crucial for memory, learning, and cognitive abilities. Studies suggest that long-term use of these drugs could increase the risk of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease.

Certain types of medication, such as particular antidepressants, antipsychotics, and urological agents, have been linked with a higher risk of dementia. While these drugs can effectively manage various health conditions, healthcare providers must consider the potential long-term cognitive effects and explore alternatives, especially for elderly patients, according to the NHS.

• Atropine: Often used in anaesthesia and to treat conditions like bradycardia, this drug blocks acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors.
• Scopolamine: Used for motion sickness and sometimes in anaesthesia, this drug blocks muscarinic receptors.
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): An antihistamine that also has anticholinergic effects, used for allergies and sleep aids.
• Oxybutynin: This drug is used to treat an overactive bladder by blocking acetylcholine in the bladder muscle.
• Tricyclic antidepressants: Primarily used for depression, they also have anticholinergic effects.
• Antipsychotics: Some antipsychotics also possess anticholinergic properties.
• Tolterodine: Another medication used to treat an overactive bladder.
• Ipratropium and tiotropium, recognised for treating respiratory ailments like COPD by hampering acetylcholine in the airways, have been caught up in concerns about cognitive health.

A groundbreaking study roping in a striking 3,500 individuals aged 65 and above who were dementia-free at the outset spanned ten years, meticulously monitoring meds ingested — both doctor-prescribed and off-the-shelf varieties.

Beginning with cognitive assessments and continuing biennially, researchers observed that by the study's end, dementia had been diagnosed in 797 participants; Alzheimer's was suspected or confirmed in 637 cases. But the complex relationship between anticholinergic drugs and dementia risk remains shrouded, demanding further inquiry to fully parse these links and optimise risk-reduction approaches.

Benzodiazepine comes with its own set of red flags, as Dr Berg points out: "Drugs such as Valium and Xanax treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures, affecting the central nervous system and brain". A chorus of research underscores a statistically significant tie between benzodiazepine use and heightened chances of succumbing to dementia, including Alzheimer's havoc.

For example, one study showed a 50% increase in dementia risk among individuals who had recently started using benzodiazepines. Another piece of research pointed out that long-term users of benzodiazepines faced a 32% to 84% higher risk of developing Alzheimer's compared to those who had never used these medications.

However, not all research has found a clear link between the use of benzodiazepines and the risk of developing dementia. Some experts suggest that the varying results could be due to factors such as the specific type and duration of benzodiazepine taken, the influence of other medications like anticholinergics, or differences among the populations studied.

• Diazepam (Valium): Prescribed for anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures, it can also be used for alcohol withdrawal.
• Alprazolam (Xanax): Used to manage anxiety disorders and panic disorders, including agoraphobia.
• Lorazepam (Ativan): Effective in managing anxiety and can also be used to help relax before medical or dental procedures.
• Clonazepam (Klonopin): Used to treat seizures and panic disorder, and can also help with anxiety and agitation.
• Chlordiazepoxide (Librium): Primarily used to manage alcohol withdrawal syndrome and can also be prescribed for anxiety.
• Clobazam (Onfi, Sympazan): Approved to treat seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
• Flurazepam (Dalmane): Used for the treatment of insomnia.
• Estazolam (ProSom): Prescribed for the treatment of insomnia.
• Temazepam (Restoril): Used for the treatment of insomnia.

Studies that have found a connection between benzodiazepines and dementia often note that the risk seems to be greater with long-acting benzodiazepines (such as diazepam and flurazepam) and with extended use. Moreover, some findings suggest that benzodiazepines might disrupt brain functions related to memory and cognitive abilities, potentially increasing the risk of dementia.

However, the exact mechanisms and the extent to which benzodiazepines may contribute to dementia are still under investigation. Given the mixed evidence and the possibility of confounding variables, further research is crucial to fully understand the link between benzodiazepine use and dementia risk.

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Drugs such as Prilosec and Nexium, which are used to treat indigestion and heartburn, "may increase the risk of cognitive decline", warns Dr Berg. While some studies suggest a potential link between proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and an increased risk of dementia, particularly with long-term use, the evidence is not conclusive and a direct cause-and-effect relationship has yet to be firmly established.

Research findings vary, with some studies showing no significant correlation, while others suggest a possible increase in risk. The strength of the evidence also differs from study to study.

Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between PPIs and dementia. Those concerned about the potential risks associated with PPIs should consult their healthcare providers to discuss whether alternative treatments or strategies might be appropriate.

• Omeprazole (Prilosec): Available over-the-counter and by prescription.
• Lansoprazole (Prevacid): Available over-the-counter and by prescription.
• Pantoprazole (Protonix): Prescription only.
• Rabeprazole (AcipHex): Prescription only.
• Esomeprazole (Nexium): Available over-the-counter and by prescription.
• Dexlansoprazole (Dexilant): Prescription only.

PPIs work by blocking the proton pump, an enzyme that produces stomach acid. By inhibiting this pump, PPIs reduce stomach acid levels, relieving symptoms related to excess acid.

Opioids, including morphine, heroin, codeine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl, all work in a similar way by stimulating opioid receptors in the brain and body, effectively blocking pain signals between them. "Morphine, oxycodone, and other opioids that sedate the brain significantly affect cognitive function and may lead to dementia," Dr Berg cautioned.

Studies have revealed that long-term or heavy use of opioids is linked to an increased risk of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. Opioids can cause cognitive impairments such as sedation and delirium, which, while reversible, may increase the risk of dementia, especially with prolonged or intense use. The research has particularly focused on individuals who use opioids for chronic pain.

The link between opioids and dementia could be influenced by various factors related to chronic pain, including the pain itself, pre-existing health conditions, and other medications being taken concurrently. While evidence is mounting, further research is crucial to understand precisely how opioids might affect dementia risk and to measure the strength of this connection.

• Healthy Diet: Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
• Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of dementia.
• Limit Alcohol: Reduce alcohol consumption to recommended guidelines.
• Stay Mentally Active: Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as reading, learning a new language, or playing games.
• Stay Socially Active: Maintain connections with friends and family, join clubs, or volunteer.