Drug Reactions May Be Mistaken for Dementia

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Drug Reactions May Be Mistaken for Dementia

Researchers are suggesting that the side effects of many drugs commonly used

by elderly persons can be mistaken for dementia and result in the

prescription of even more medications.

According to research published in the Journal of the Royal Society of

Medicine, elderly persons may be at particular risk for anticholinergic side

effects that, apart from dementia-like symptoms of confusion, memory loss,

and disorientation, can also potentially include glaucoma-like blurred

vision, constipation, urinary problems, dizziness, likelihood of falling,

anxiety, and irregular or rapid heartbeat. Many of the prescription drugs

used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, depression, allergies,

migraine, and irritable bowel syndrome can also result in these types of

side effects.

Researchers note that in the United States, individuals over age 65 consume

30% of prescriptions and 40% of over-the-counter remedies, while comprising

only 13% of the population. In the United Kingdom, elderly persons use 45%

of all prescription drugs, but make up only 18% of the population. However,

if physicians fail to give proper attention to side effects, other drugs may

be prescribed to treat the resultant symptoms, instead of making an

adjustment on the dose of the responsible drug. These side effects should

not be mistaken for the effects of old age and age-related illness, the

investigators warn.