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Antihistamines such as Benadryl, belong to a class of medications with anticholinergic effects. This means that they block the activity of a natural message-signaling substance (neurotransmitter) in the brain called acetylcholine.
Acetylcholine is involved in learning and memory, as well as muscle contraction.
In 2015, the prestigious journal JAMA Internal Medicine published a study that indicated that drugs with anticholinergic effects may increase the risk of dementia. Nearly 3,500 men and women aged 65 and older were included in the prospective cohort study and were tracked over an average of seven years. The researchers found that those who used medications with prominent anticholinergic effects were more likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer’s disease than those who didn’t, and that the greater the dose and duration, the greater the risk.
This is not the only study to indicate a connection between anticholinergic use and cognitive decline. More studies are here, here, here, here and here.
By addressing symptoms and conditions at their root cause, Functional Medicine can often reduce the need for medication. Rebalancing the immune system, reducing inflammation, and considering natural alternatives to antihistamines such as quercetin, are some straightforward ways to reduce dependence on over-the-counter antihistamines.
Other anticholinergic drugs are widely used, including as anti-arrhythmics, antiemetics, antiparkinson agents, antipsychotics, antidepressants and antispasmodics. For a comprehensive list of drugs with moderate to high anticholinergic activity click here.
You should only discontinue a prescribed medication under physician approval and supervision.
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My newest topic I am exploring is histamine function in the body as well, and I am astounded at how much it affects our health. I love how functional medicine is about getting off medication and being able to find the root cause of why histamine release is being triggered in the body at all! A much better approach, as you say, then just treating the symptoms with another anti-histamine that has long-term negative effects.
Hi Dr. Aimie,
Welcome, and hope you enjoy our site!
Methylation is also important when it comes to histamine since it breaks down histamine that has been released. You might be interested in our work on methylation support:
https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/our-clinic/ebook/
Is there any evidence or studies to suggest long-term use of antihistamines can be a source for Parkinson’s disease? I’ve been taking different classes of antihistamines Every day for the last 40 years and was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s. I fear that it may be a drug-induced Parkinson’s
We’re not aware of research definitively connecting antihistamine use with Parkinson’s Disease. However, inflammation and allergies might play a role in neurological decline. If you can, consider working with a FxMed trained physician who can help slow progression. You can find someone on IFM.org “Find a Practitioner” feature. You are also welcome to contact our office to work with one of our team.