It is estimated that 57 million people lived with dementia worldwide in 2021, Alzheimer’s disease representing 60 to 70% of all cases. Now, a new study warns that adults who take certain prescription drugs can face a significantly higher risk of developing dementia.According to a meta-analysis published in the Neurology and UrodyNamics Journal, people who take certain prescription drugs for more than three months have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, a cerebral disorder that slowly destroys a person’s memory and skills of reflection. This disease leads to a cognitive loss of functioning, such as reflection, memorization and reasoning, as well as behavioral capacities to the point as it interferes with the life and daily activities of a person. Over time, Alzheimer’s patients lose their ability to perform simple daily tasks, such as eating or walking. How does the prescription drug increase the risk of Alzheimer’s
According to meta-analysis, long-term use of anticholinergic drugs, commonly prescribed for conditions such as hyperactive bladder, allergies and depression, can increase the risk of dementia by 46%. The study, which analyzed 21 studies and included a meta-analysis of six, examined the impact of anticholinergic drugs taken for at least three months. These drugs block acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is critical for memory and cognitive function. Acetylcholine transmits messages into the nervous system.In the brain, acetylcholine is linked to learning and memory. In the rest of the body, it stimulates muscle contractions. Anticholinergic drugs also include antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, drugs to control hyperactive bladder and drugs to relieve symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
The results revealed a clear association between prolonged anticholinergic use and the risk of dementia. The study revealed that a people who had taken these anticholinergic drugs presented an increased risk of increased dementia to those who did not take them. The risk has increased with longer exposure, some studies noting a dose-dependent effect. “The anticholinergic use for ≥3 months has increased the risk of dementia on average by around 46% compared to non-use.This relationship was consistent in studies evaluating hyperactive bladder drugs. The risk of developing dementia must be carefully taken into account in the context of a potential advantage before prescribing anticholinergics, “said the authors.Another study carried out by researchers from the University of Nottingham revealed that there was almost an increased risk of dementia in patients aged 55 and over who had used strong anticholinergic drugs daily for three years or more. “This study revealed that there were almost 50% an increased risk of dementia in patients aged 55 and over who had used strong anticholinergic drugs for three years or more, Professor Tom Dening, head of the dementia center at university, and a member of the research team.The study followed 58,769 patients with dementia diagnosis and 225,574 patients without dementia diagnosis.
