Medications that can cause Memory Loss

Many people associate aging with memory loss. This symptom, however, is not always caused by a natural progression of aging. Many times it has another source that can be addressed. As a caregiver, you are the first line of defense, the advocate, for your aging parent. If you loved one is exhibiting signs of memory loss, make an appointment with their primary health care provider. There just might be a solution. Many medications carry the side-effect of memory loss.

Medications as the Culprit

Caregiver in Amagansett NY: Medications that can cause Memory Loss

Anti-anxiety Drugs

Benzodiazepines are often prescribed for anxiety disorders, seizures, muscle spasms and sleep disorders. A few of their common names include Xanax, Librium, Valium, Ativan and Restoril. In addition, these types of drugs are used in anesthesia in order to diminish memory. This same effect carries over to daily life.

Cholesterol-lowering Drugs

Statins are often prescribed to treat high blood cholesterol levels. A few of their common names are Lipitor, Crestor and Pravachol. They not only deplete the body of cholesterol, but the brain as well.  These fats are vital to the brain and are used in the connections between nerve cells.

Anti-seizure Drugs

In addition to seizures, these drugs are used to treat mood disorders and nerve pain. A few of their common names include Lyrica, Topamaz, Diamox and Trileptal.  These work by depressing the signal in the central nervous system which can also contribute to memory loss.

Anti-depressant Drugs

In addition to depression, Tricyclic drugs are prescribed for anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. A few of their common names include Elavil, Norpramin, Tofranil and Vivactil. These drugs cause loss of memory by blocking the action of serotonin and noepinephrine—two key chemical messengers.

Narcotic Painkillers

These opioid derived analgesics are prescribed for severe chronic pain. A few of their common names include Vicodin, OxyContin, Percocet and Duragesic. These may interfere with memory by reducing the flow of pain signal in the central nervous system.

Parkinson’s Drugs

In addition to Parkinson’s, dopamine agonists may be used to treat restless legs syndrome. A few of the common names include Apokyn and Mirapex.  This memory loss has something to do with the pathways for dopamine, a chemical involved with memory.

Hypertension Drugs

Beta-blockers are prescribed for high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. A few common names include Lopressor, Toprol and Inderal. These drugs block norepinephrine and epinephrine, chemical messengers in the brain.

Sedative Hypnotics

These drugs are used to treat insomnia and mild anxiety. A few of their common names include Lunesta, Sonata and Ambien. These drugs can cause not only loss of memory, but amnesia as well.

If your loved one is suffering from memory loss, consider taking their list of medications to their health care provider or pharmacist. There are often alternatives including non-drug treatments or lifestyle changes.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional caregiver services in Amagansett, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.

Resource:  http://www.aarp.org/health/brain-health/info-05-2013/drugs-that-may-cause-memory-loss.html#quest1