Gerontologist warned about medications that increase the risk of dementia

Long-term use of certain common medications can increase the likelihood of developing dementia by almost 50%. Anna Shelobanova, a gerontologist at the Warm Conversations boarding school network, told Izvestia on May 27.

The specialist noted that even over-the-counter medications require careful use. The risk group includes popular antidepressants, which, when taken for a long time, can increase the likelihood of cognitive impairment by 3.5 times.

"Antidepressants affect brain chemistry by altering the balance of serotonin and norepinephrine. Constant interference in this process can disrupt the activity of nerve cells and lead to a gradual decrease in cognitive activity," Shelobanova explained.

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Uncontrolled use of corvalol is particularly dangerous. According to the expert, the drug is often used for other purposes, it is addictive, and its regular use threatens to worsen memory and increase the risk of dementia.

Remedies for heartburn, the expert claims, can provoke vitamin B12 deficiency and increase the level of beta-amyloid proteins in the brain. Antihistamines and sleeping pills containing diphenhydramine suppress important neurotransmitters involved in memory and learning processes. Long-term use of these drugs can suppress brain activity, reduce attention, and even disrupt wakefulness, especially in the elderly over 65 years of age.

Even painkillers can impair blood supply to the brain and increase the risk of cognitive impairment.

"A number of painkillers can constrict blood vessels, thereby impairing blood flow to the brain. Insufficient circulation of oxygen and nutrients disrupts the normal functioning of brain cells," the gerontologist said.

Opiates and opioids, which are used during general anesthesia and for pain relief after surgery, have the strongest effect — the risk of developing dementia doubles 3-7 years after surgery.

Earlier, on May 21, Shelobanova told Izvestia which vegetables can protect against dementia. According to her, regular potatoes can be a real treasure for the brain. She also explained that a variety of types of cabbage, from broccoli to Brussels sprouts, contain powerful antioxidants that protect neurons from damage.