safety guide for older adults) flags many of these drugs as potentially inappropriate and encourages safer alternatives when possible.
Tip: If the product name ends in “PM” (e.g., pain reliever + sleep aid), it likely contains diphenhydramine, a strong anticholinergic. Ask your pharmacist for non-anticholinergic options.
What About Benzodiazepines?
Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam, temazepam) are widely used for anxiety and insomnia. Several observational studies report an association between long-term benzodiazepine use and higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, especially with prolonged exposure and long-acting agents.
That said, other
