A modest decline in memory is a very common part of the aging process. However, impaired memory which occurs at a much younger age can be a consequence of drug and alcohol abuse, smoking, injuries on the head, lack of sleep, excessive amounts of stress, Alzheimer’s, and vitamin B12 deficiency.
According to newest studies, some prescribed medications can also impede the memory. Statistics shows that adverse reaction to drugs is one of the main causes of death in the U.S. with an estimate of 100.000 deaths per year and more than 1.5 million hospitalized patients due to experiencing side effects from prescribed meds.
The Most Common Meds Causing Cognitive Problems
Statin drugs
The ‘anti’ drugs like antispasmodics, antidepressants, antibiotics, antihistamines, etc. influence the amount of acetylcholine in the body, which is the main neurotransmitter for learning and memory.
When its levels are low, the risk of health problems like blurry vision, mental confusion, hallucinations, dementia, delirium, and loss of memory elevates. Anticholinergic drugs are known to block the effects of acetylcholine and they can have serious side effects like confusion, dry mouth, constipation, difficulty urinating, etc.
These 20 Drugs Cause Loss of Memory
- Lithium
- Antihistamines
- Steroids
- Methyldopa
- Naproxen
- Antidepressants
- Interferons
- Hypertension drugs
- Beta blockers
- Quinidine
- Insulin
- Benzodiazepines
- Medications for Parkinson’s
- Antipsychotics
- Barbiturates
- Epilepsy
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Antibiotics
- Painkillers
- Sleeping pills
Important to note:
- You should only take these meds in previous consultation with your physician
- If you take some of these meds, make sure you take food supplements
- Be more physically active and lead a healthier diet
Anticholinergic Over-the-Counter Drugs
- Unisom
- Tylenol PM
- Tagamet
- Zantac
- Sominex
- Pepcid ac
- Nytol
- Dramamine
- Claritin
- Benadryl
- Advil PM
According to studies, meds like Benadryl increase the chance of dementia and Alzheimer’s.
