Health Capsule

Certain medications act on the brain and nervous system. These drugs can raise the risk of side effects such as confusion, falls, and even hospitalization. The danger is especially great for people living with dementia, a condition that affects memory and thinking abilities. A recent study found that a significant number of individuals with dementia are using medications that may not be safe for them.

In the study, researchers reviewed the medical records of around 4,800 adults aged 65 and older. They examined how many participants had taken at least one medication known to influence the brain and nervous system for a minimum of 28 days.

The medications included certain treatments for depression, anxiety, panic disorders, and sleep difficulties. The researchers also considered drugs that commonly cause drowsiness. Their goal was to determine how frequently these medicines were used and the reasons behind their use.

Among those diagnosed with dementia, 25% were taking at least one of these medications. In comparison, 17% of individuals without dementia were using one of these drugs.

The results suggest that many older adults may be prescribed medications that are not always the safest option. In numerous cases, there was no clear medical reason for their use. Reducing unnecessary prescriptions could help improve safety and overall quality of care.

However, medications that affect the brain and nervous system can sometimes be appropriate and necessary.

“Older adults and their caregivers should work closely with their doctors to make sure these medications truly fit their individual needs,” says Dr. Annie Yang of Yale University.