Drug-induced memory loss may occur after just 60 days of antihistamine use. These anticholinergic drugs are in a class of medication that also includes many blood thinners, antidepressants and medications used for overactive bladder, heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
In a recent study of 3,690 adults, those who took a daily dose of a strong anticholinergic drug, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), for 60 days had mild cognitive impairment, including memory loss
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If you regularly take an anticholinergic: Talk to your doctor about switching to a different drug, Cetirizine (Zyrtec) has far fewer anticholinergic side effects and can be used for allergies.
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