Could Some Anti-Allergy Medications Increase Dementia Risk in Seniors?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A recent study indicates that certain antihistamines may increase dementia risk in older adults, highlighting the importance of careful prescription practices. With dementia cases projected to rise significantly by 2050, understanding the implications of medication use is crucial for safeguarding senior health.
Key Takeaways
- Some antihistamines may increase dementia risk in the elderly.
- Dementia cases are projected to nearly triple by 2050.
- Delirium is common in hospitalized older adults.
- Careful prescription of medications is essential for senior safety.
- Non-sedating antihistamines may be a safer alternative.
New Delhi, Oct 22 (NationPress) A recent study has highlighted that certain antihistamines—which are commonly used as anti-allergy medications—may elevate the risk of dementia among the elderly population.
Currently, dementias are believed to impact over 57.4 million individuals globally, with projections suggesting this figure could surge to 152.8 million by the year 2050.
Initial symptoms of dementia include memory loss, challenges in finding words, confusion, as well as variations in mood and behavior.
An examination published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older patients admitted to hospitals by doctors who prescribe higher doses of first-generation antihistamines are at a greater risk of experiencing delirium—a sudden, severe form of confusion—while hospitalized.
According to researchers from the University of Toronto, “First-generation antihistamines, like diphenhydramine, are significant contributors to medication-related issues in older adults. Although these drugs are intended for histamine-related conditions like hives and anaphylaxis, they are often prescribed inappropriately.”
The research team evaluated data from 328,140 patients aged 65 and older, admitted by 755 attending physicians across 17 hospitals in Ontario, Canada, from 2015 to 2022.
The findings revealed that the overall occurrence of delirium was 34.8%. Patients under the care of physicians who frequently prescribed first-generation antihistamines had a 41% higher chance of developing delirium compared to those treated by physicians who seldom prescribed them.
Delirium can affect up to 50% of hospitalized elderly patients and is linked to severe adverse outcomes, including increased mortality rates and lasting cognitive decline.
“We aim for our findings to inform hospitalists about the potential dangers of sedating antihistamines, urging careful prescription practices,” stated corresponding author Aaron M. Drucker from the University of Toronto and Women's College Hospital.
While first-generation antihistamines are meant for histamine-mediated conditions such as urticaria and anaphylaxis, they may be wrongly prescribed for non-histamine-related pruritic conditions like type-IV hypersensitivity drug reactions or general itchiness.
Moreover, even when used for histamine-related conditions, first-generation antihistamines do not show superior efficacy compared to their non-sedating counterparts, which are associated with fewer adverse effects.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight the serious implications of the recent study regarding antihistamines and dementia risk. This research emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to exercise caution when prescribing these medications to older adults, ensuring that patient health and safety remain the top priority.
NationPress
22/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are antihistamines?
Antihistamines are medications commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic reactions.
How do first-generation antihistamines differ from second-generation antihistamines?
First-generation antihistamines often cause drowsiness and sedation, while second-generation antihistamines are less sedating and have fewer side effects.
What is delirium?
Delirium is a sudden change in mental status characterized by confusion, disorientation, and difficulty focusing, often seen in hospitalized elderly patients.
What are the symptoms of dementia?
Symptoms of dementia include memory loss, difficulties in communication, confusion regarding time and place, and changes in mood or behavior.
How can the risk of dementia be reduced in elderly patients?
Risk reduction strategies include regular health check-ups, medication review, cognitive exercises, and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
