risk
Common examples:
Oxybutynin
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Amitriptyline, nortriptyline
Hydroxyzine
Cyclobenzaprine
What to do:
Request a medication review. Many safer alternatives exist.
😴 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
