Post by alice on Jan 27, 2015 12:25:59 GMT -5
Hay fever and sleeping tablets 'can increase risk of Alzheimer's and dementia'
Jan 26, 2015 21:26
By Ben Rossington
The findings have “public health implications” about “potential safety risks” of many over-the-counter remedies, according to scientists
Over-the-counter hay fever pills and sleeping tablets can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s, a study warned today.
The findings have “public health implications” about “potential safety risks”, according to scientists.
Other drugs for depression and bladder control were also linked to dementia .
The drugs have an “anticholinergic” effect, which blocks a chemical transmitter that people with Alzheimer’s lack.
Experts tracked the health of 3,434 over-65 and their use of anticholinergic drugs, like antihistamine diphenhydramine, for seven years.
During the study, 637 developed Alzheimer’s and 160 got other forms of dementia.
For people on high doses the risk of dementia was 54% higher compared to no use.
The report said: “These findings have public health implications for the health of older adults about potential safety risks because some anticholinergics are available as over-the-counter products.”
The findings, in journal Jama Internal Medicine, showed people were at higher risk if they took at least 10mg a day of antidepressant doxepin, 4mg a day of antihistamine diphenhydramine, or 5mg a day of oxybutynin for more than three years.
Dr Simon Ridley of Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “This large study adds to some existing evidence linking anticholinergic drugs to a small increased risk of dementia, but the results don’t tell us that these drugs cause the condition.”
Personal from alice moderator:
My husband had allergies and sleep problems for years. He was put on Benadryl at bedtime and he took this daily a few years before being diagnosed with Alzheimers.
UK has been first in finding meds that have been beneficial in helping those with Alzheimers.
This article is something to really think about...
The last sentence is important to consider...also “potential safety risks” ."
I am no longer able to hold your hand my beloved but I cherish the remembrance of your hand in mine...and the wonderful person that touched so many lives with joy. : ) 
