long-term use. Current prescribing guidance also recognizes memory impairment and cognitive dysfunction among their potential harms.
Never stop a benzodiazepine abruptly after regular use because withdrawal can be serious.
## 2. Sleeping Medicines
Some prescription sleep medicines can cause:
* Next-day drowsiness
* Confusion
* Reduced alertness
* Memory gaps
These effects may be more noticeable in older adults or when combined with alcohol, sedatives, or other medications.
If a sleep medicine seems to affect your thinking or memory, ask your doctor whether the dose, timing, or medication should be reviewed.
## 3. First-Generation Antihistamines
Some
