In a recent study conducted by the Indiana University School of Medicine and published in the journal Neurology, researchers found that common over-the-counter medicines can shrink the brain and impair thinking in older adults. Treatments for colds and flu, hay fever and allergy, insomnia, and heartburn contain anti-cholinergic ingredients which can block acetylcholine—a crucial brain neurotransmitter needed for memory, attention, and decision-making.
Researchers examined the results of memory and other cognitive tests, positron emission tomography (PET), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Effects associated with taking these over-the-counter drugs included brain atrophy (shrinkage) and slower brain-processing speed. They are also associated with falls and an increased risk of dementia.
Comments: Use of over-the-counter drugs containing anti-cholingeric ingredients should be discouraged. At our office, we offer natural solutions for colds and flu, hay fever and allergy, insomnia, and heartburn.
