This common over-the-counter drug could be linked to dementia
A commonly-used over-the-counter medication that can provide allergy and cold relief or serve as sleep aids may increase a person’s risk of dementia.
Antihistamines work to block the chemical histamine, which causes uncomfortable allergy symptoms. However, what kind of antihistamine you’re taking can make a big difference to your long-term health.
There are two main types of antihistamines on the market: first-generation and second-generation.
Physicians say that these “first-generation” antihistamines are less safe because they more easily cross your blood-brain barrier into the central nervous system, causing drowsiness. The second-generation antihistamines, meanwhile, do not.
"People sometimes assume these medications must be harmless because they are sold over the counter, but if you use them too often or for too long, they can mess with your thinking, make you groggy during the day, and possibly lead to long-term problems," Dr. Pamela Tambini, an internal medicine physician and medical director at Engage Wellness, recently told Women’s Health.
The first-generation antihistamines specifically target a key brain chemical involved in memory that is called acetylcholine. Because of their design, they have a long-term impact on our brain’s health. That negative impact has been documented for a few years — but may not be something on your mind when you need relief.
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Original Post: https://www.the-independent.com/news/health/antihistamines-cause-dementia-risk-over-the-counter-b2761746.html
