Alert: 8 Types of Drugs Linked to Increased Dementia Risk

exist.

😴 3. Sleep Medications

😴 3. Sleep Medications

 

Used for: Insomnia

What research suggests:

Frequent use of sleep aids has been linked to a higher risk of dementia.

Examples:

Diphenhydramine, doxylamine

Zolpidem (Ambien)

Benzodiazepines

Trazodone

What to do:

Try non-drug approaches first (sleep hygiene, CBT for insomnia).

💔 4. Certain Antidepressants

Used for: Depression, anxiety, nerve pain

Higher-risk examples (anticholinergic):

Amitriptyline

Nortriptyline

Paroxetine

Doxepin

Lower-risk options:

Sertraline

Citalopram

Escitalopram

What to do:

Do not stop abruptly. Discuss alternatives with your doctor.

🫀 5. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

🫀 5. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

 

Examples: Prilosec, Nexium, Prevacid

Used for: Acid reflux, GERD

What research