8 Medications That Can Affect Memory and Thinking
The headline that certain drugs simply “cause serious dementia” is misleading. Some medications can cause confusion, drowsiness, or memory and concentration problems, particularly in older adults, but this does not mean they cause permanent dementia in everyone who takes them.
1. Benzodiazepines
Medicines such as diazepam, lorazepam, and similar drugs can cause drowsiness, confusion, and short-term memory problems, especially with prolonged use or in older adults.
2. Strong Anticholinergic Medicines
Some medications for allergies, bladder problems, stomach issues, and other conditions have anticholinergic effects. Higher exposure can contribute to confusion and cognitive problems, particularly in older people.
3. Certain Sleep Medicines
Some prescription and over-the-counter sleep aids can cause next-day drowsiness, confusion, or memory difficulties. Older adults may be particularly sensitive to these effects.
4. Some Opioid Pain Medicines
Opioids can cause sedation and confusion. The risk may be greater when combined with other medicines that depress the nervous system.
5. Certain Antidepressants
Some antidepressants can produce confusion, sleepiness, or other cognitive side effects in susceptible people. The effects vary considerably between medications and individuals.
6. Corticosteroids
Medicines such as prednisone can sometimes cause mood changes, sleep problems, confusion, or other changes in thinking, particularly at higher doses.
7. Some Anti-Seizure Medicines
Certain anticonvulsants can cause sleepiness, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, or memory problems. The specific medication and dose matter.
8. Some Bladder-Control Medicines
Several medicines used for urinary urgency have anticholinergic effects and may cause dry mouth, constipation, confusion, or memory difficulties in some people.
What Should You Do?
If memory or confusion changes after starting a medication or changing its dose, speak with a doctor or pharmacist. They can review the entire medication list and determine whether a medicine, combination of medicines, or another health problem could be contributing.
Never stop a prescribed medication suddenly without medical advice.
Bottom line: These medications do not automatically cause dementia. Some can affect memory and thinking, and older adults may be more vulnerable to these effects. A medication review can help identify safer options when appropriate.
