The Mystery of Sudden Memory Loss
Dear Dr. Mirkin:
Can sudden memory loss be caused by medications?
Answer: Yes; a recent long-term study on 13,000 men and women, aged 65 and older, shows that many drugs can impair memory (Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, published online June 24, 2011).
Those drugs most likely to do this are called anticholinergics, taken for insomnia, allergies, incontinence, high blood pressure, heart failure, or excess stomach acid. Anticholinergics affect the brain by blocking acetylcholine, the chemical that transmits a message from one nerve to another.
Over-the-counter drugs on the list include diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), Dramamine®, Excedrin PM®, Nytol®, Sominex®, Tylenol PM®, and Unisom®, and prescription drugs: Paxil®, Detrol®, Demerol® and Elavil®.
A more complete list can be found here.
Printer-friendly versionAbout the author
A practicing physician for more than 40 years and a radio talk show host for 25, Dr. Mirkin is a graduate of Harvard University and Baylor University College of Medicine. He is one of a very few doctors board-certified in four specialties: Sports Medicine, Allergy and Immunology, Pediatrics and Pediatric Immunology.
Read more at www.drmirkin.com.
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