Medications that Worsen Dementia Symptoms

Overview

Dementia is a group of conditions that affect the brain and impair a person’s ability to think remember, or reason. Certain medications can worsen the symptoms of dementia, which include problems with memory, attention, judgement, problem solving, and communication. Here are some medications to be aware of:

• Chemotherapy drugs: Chemotherapy is known for its side effect called "chemo brain," which can cause mental fogginess and impact memory and mental acuity. While these symptoms can often improve after chemotherapy has ended, they may temporarily intensify the symptoms of dementia.
• Anticholinergics: These medications block the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and are used to treat various conditions such as respiratory disorders, incontinence, and certain mental health conditions. However, since dementia is already associated with low levels of acetylcholine in the brain, taking anticholinergics can worsen the symptoms of dementia. Common anticholinergic medications include antihistamines, Parkinson's disease medications, pupil dilators, anti-nausea medications, antidepressants, and antipsychotics.
• Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines are often prescribed to treat insomnia and anxiety. They work by slowing down the function of the central nervous system and can make thought processes feel slower than usual. These medications can also cause irritability, amnesia, vivid dreams, and hypnosis.
• Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids mimic the action of the hormone cortisol in the body. One potential impact of corticosteroid use is imbalanced neurotransmitters in the brain, which can lead to symptoms such as depression, mood shifts, anxiety, memory changes, altered emotional processing, and psychosis.
• Beta-blockers: While no large-scale studies have directly linked beta-blockers to an increased chance of developing dementia, a small 2020 study found that beta-blocker use was associated with an increased risk of vascular dementia (a type of dementia caused by changes in blood flow to the brain).

It's important to note that these medications may be necessary for certain conditions or situations. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication regimen or starting any new medications. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific needs and circumstances.