Alert: 8 Types of Medications That May Be Linked With Cognitive Problems
Some medications can affect memory, attention, or thinking—especially in older adults or when taken at higher doses or in combinations. A medication causing confusion or memory problems does not always mean it causes permanent dementia, but certain drugs have been associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment in some studies.
Do not stop any prescribed medication suddenly without speaking with a healthcare professional.
1. Anticholinergic medications
Examples include some older allergy medicines, bladder medicines, and medications for nausea or sleep.
- These can reduce the activity of acetylcholine, a brain chemical involved in memory and learning.
2. Certain sleep medications
- Some prescription sleep aids and sedatives may cause confusion, slowed thinking, or memory problems, especially in older adults.
3. Benzodiazepines
Examples include medicines used for anxiety or panic disorders.
- Long-term use, particularly in older adults, has been associated in some research with increased risk of cognitive problems.
4. Some opioid pain medications
- Opioids can cause drowsiness, confusion, and impaired concentration, especially at higher doses or when combined with other sedating medicines.
5. Certain antidepressants
- Some antidepressants with strong anticholinergic effects may affect memory and alertness in some people.
6. Some anti-seizure medications
- Certain medicines used for seizures or nerve pain can cause sleepiness, slowed thinking, or concentration difficulties.
7. Some medications for bladder control
- Certain bladder antimuscarinic drugs can have anticholinergic effects that may affect cognition.
8. Some medications used for nausea or dizziness
- Certain drugs that affect brain signaling can cause sedation or confusion in some people.
What to do if you’re concerned:
- Review all medicines (including over-the-counter drugs and supplements) with a doctor or pharmacist.
- Ask whether a lower-risk alternative is available.
- Report new confusion, memory changes, or unusual sleepiness.
Many factors can affect memory, including aging, medical conditions, sleep problems, depression, and medication combinations. A healthcare professional can help determine whether a medication is contributing to symptoms.
