New research by Dr. Cara Tannenbaum, associate professor of medicine and pharmacy at the University of Montreal in Canada, suggests that the cause of memory loss and concentration in the elderly may be due to the medication.
Widely used medicines such as those used to treat insomnia, anxiety, itching or allergies can have a negative impact on memory or concentration in the elderly and are often overlooked as the cause of memory loss.
This research investigated which medications are most likely to affect both memory as well as attention, concentration, and performance of brain functions.
They found that several medications can affects both kinds of brain functioning, but were overlooked as a cause of memory loss, notably benzodiazepines, which are often used in the treatment of anxiety and insomnia.
This research reinforces the American Geriatric Society's recommendation that tricyclic antidepressants, first generation antihistamines and sleeping pills should be avoided in older patients.
However some patients may need to continue their medication despite the risks and should discuss this with their physician.
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