Anticholinergic medications are commonly used to treat many medical conditions, such as: seasonal allergies, depression, anxiety, indigestion, insomnia and many others. Many of these drugs can be purchased over the counter (Benedryl, Sominex, Zantac, Imodium), while others may be purchased through prescription only (Xanax, Wellbutrin, Paxil, Coumadin, Lasix). Previous research has found anticholinergic drugs to be safe and effective when used correctly, however, most of the drugs were studied for short time periods in the clinical trials, thus outcomes of long term use has been less studied. Recent research has found anticholinergic drugs to be associated with dementia and Alzheimer's Disease. The present meta-analysis investigated the long term safety and efficacy of anticholinergic agents and the risk of dementia. Results will be presented. Considering the widespread use of these agents in the population, if an association does exist, population-based education to and an effort to decrease drug utilization or determine alternatives to anticholinergic drugs may be warranted.
