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Talwar A, Chatterjee S, Sherer J, Abughosh S, Johnson M, Aparasu RR. Cumulative Anticholinergic Burden and its Predictors among Older Adults with Alzheimer's Disease Initiating Cholinesterase Inhibitors. Drugs Aging 2024; 41:339-355. [PMID: 38467994 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-024-01103-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cumulative anticholinergic burden refers to the cumulative effect of multiple medications with anticholinergic properties. However, concomitant use of cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) and anticholinergic burden can nullify the benefit of the treatment and worsen Alzheimer's disease (AD). A literature gap exists regarding the extent of the cumulative anticholinergic burden and associated risk factors in AD. Therefore, this study evaluated the prevalence and predictors of cumulative anticholinergic burden among patients with AD initiating ChEIs. METHODS A retrospective longitudinal cohort study was conducted using the Medicare claims data involving parts A, B, and D from 2013 to 2017. The study sample included older adults (65 years and older) diagnosed with AD and initiating ChEIs (donepezil, rivastigmine, or galantamine). The cumulative anticholinergic burden was calculated based on the Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden scale and patient-specific dosing using the defined daily dose over the 1 year follow-up period after ChEI initiation. Incremental anticholinergic burden levels were dichotomized into moderate-high (sum of standardized daily anticholinergic exposure over a year (TSDD) score ≥ 90) versus low-no (score 0-89). The Andersen Behavioral Model was used as the conceptual framework for selecting the predictors under the predisposing, enabling, and need categories. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to evaluate the predictors of high-moderate versus low-no cumulative anticholinergic burden. A multinomial logistic regression model was also used to determine the factors associated with patients having moderate and high burdens compared to low/no burdens. RESULTS The study included 222,064 older adults with AD with incident ChEI use (mean age 82.24 ± 7.29, 68.9% females, 83.6% White). Overall, 80.48% had some anticholinergic burden during the follow-up, with 36.26% patients with moderate (TSDD scores 90-499), followed by 24.76% high (TSDD score > 500), and 19.46% with low (TSDD score 1-89) burden categories. Predisposing factors such as age; African American, Asian, or Hispanic race; and need factors included comorbidities such as dyslipidemia, syncope, delirium, fracture, pneumonia, epilepsy, and claims-based frailty index were less likely to be associated with the moderate-high anticholinergic burden. The factors that increased the odds of moderate-high burden were predisposing factors such as female sex; enabling factors such as dual eligibility and diagnosis year; and need factors such as baseline burden, behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, depression, insomnia, urinary incontinence, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, muscle spasm, gastroesophageal reflux disease, heart failure, and dysrhythmia. Most of these findings remained consistent with multinomial logistic regression. CONCLUSION: Four out of five older adults with AD had some level of anticholinergic burden, with over 60% having moderate-high anticholinergic burden. Several predisposing, enabling, and need factors were associated with the cumulative anticholinergic burden. The study findings suggest a critical need to minimize the cumulative anticholinergic burden to improve AD care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashna Talwar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Jeffrey Sherer
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Translational Research, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Susan Abughosh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael Johnson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rajender R Aparasu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, Adjunct Professor of Geriatrics, UTHealth McGovern Medical School, Health and Biomedical Sciences Building 2 - Office 4052, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, 4349 Martin Luther King Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77204-5047, USA.
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2
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Chapman WD, Herink MC, Cameron MH, Bourdette D. Polypharmacy in Multiple Sclerosis: Prevalence, Risks, and Mitigation Strategies. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2023; 23:521-529. [PMID: 37523105 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-023-01289-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Polypharmacy, the use of ≥ 5 medications, is common in people with multiple sclerosis and is associated with negative outcomes. The use of multiple medications is common for symptom management in people with multiple sclerosis, but risks drug-drug interactions and additive side effects. Multiple sclerosis providers should therefore focus on the appropriateness and risks versus benefits of pharmacotherapy in each patient. This review describes the prevalence and risks associated with polypharmacy in people with multiple sclerosis and offers strategies to identify and mitigate inappropriate polypharmacy. RECENT FINDINGS Research in people with multiple sclerosis has identified risk factors and negative outcomes associated with polypharmacy. Medication class-specific investigations highlight their contribution to potentially inappropriate polypharmacy in people with multiple sclerosis. People with multiple sclerosis are at risk for inappropriate polypharmacy. Multiple sclerosis providers should review medications and consider their appropriateness and potential for deprescribing within the context of each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Daniel Chapman
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
| | - Megan C Herink
- College of Pharmacy, Oregon Health & Science University/Oregon State University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Michelle H Cameron
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University and VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Dennis Bourdette
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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3
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Lampela P, Tolppanen AM, Koponen M, Tanskanen A, Tiihonen J, Hartikainen S, Taipale H. Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease as a Comorbidity and Association with the Choice of Antidementia Medication Among Persons with Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 73:1243-1251. [PMID: 31929157 DOI: 10.3233/jad-190850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common comorbidities in persons with Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, pharmacotherapy of these diseases may have opposite mechanisms of action; anticholinergics in asthma/COPD and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEI) in AD. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether existing asthma/COPD affects the choice of AD medication, and the survival of the patients with AD. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, data from the MEDALZ-study, which includes all community-dwelling persons with AD during 2005-2011 in Finland (n = 70718) was utilized. Persons with asthma/COPD (N = 7211) were defined as having a special reimbursement for asthma/COPD, or long-term use (≥250 days) of inhaled anticholinergics, inhaled corticosteroids, or leukotriene antagonists during the year before AD diagnosis. We compared persons with and without asthma/COPD regarding the choice of the initial antidementia medication (AChEI versus memantine) with logistic regression and mortality with Cox regression model during the follow-up (up to end of 2015). RESULTS Memantine was favored over AChEIs as first-line treatment to AD in persons with asthma/COPD compared to those without asthma/COPD (odds ratio 1.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.15-1.31). Memantine was also more commonly used among those who used multiple asthma/COPD medications (7.9% of memantine initiators used ≥3 asthma/COPD medications compared with 5.5% of those who initiated with AChEI). Mortality was higher in persons with asthma/COPD compared to those without asthma/COPD (adjusted hazard ratio 1.10, 95% CI 1.07-1.13). CONCLUSION More frequent use of memantine instead of AChEI may result from an attempt to prevent possible worsening of asthma/COPD by AChEIs. Vulnerable persons with both AD and asthma/COPD need individually assessed pharmacotherapy for their medical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasi Lampela
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | | | - Marjaana Koponen
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, VIC, Australia
| | - Antti Tanskanen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Niuvanniemi Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Public Health Solutions, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jari Tiihonen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Niuvanniemi Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Sirpa Hartikainen
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Heidi Taipale
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Niuvanniemi Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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4
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Neelamegam M, Zgibor J, Chen H, O'rourke K, Bakour C, Rajaram L, Anstey KJ. The Effect of Cumulative Anticholinergic Use on the Cognitive Function of Older Adults: Results from the Personality and Total Health (PATH) Through Life Study. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2021; 75:1706-1714. [PMID: 32514523 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glaa145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple comorbidities are common in older adults, resulting in polypharmacy that often includes medications with anticholinergic properties. These medications have multiple side effects, which are more pronounced in the older population. This study examined the association between the use of anticholinergics and changes in the cognitive function of older adults. METHODS The study population consisted of 2,222 individuals aged 65-69 years at baseline from the Personality and Total Health (PATH) Through Life Study in Australia. Medication data were obtained from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Cognitive measures were obtained from neuropsychological battery assessment. Exposure to cumulative anticholinergic use was quantified to a total standardized daily dose (TSDD). The association between change in cognitive measures between baseline and 4-year follow-up, and cumulative use of anticholinergic was assessed through generalized linear models. RESULTS During the study period, 18.6% (n = 413) of participants filled at least one prescription for anticholinergics. Compared to those not on anticholinergics, participants on anticholinergics were more likely to be woman (62.7% compared to 45.1%) and spent lesser time engaging in vigorous physical activity (0.4 h/week compared to 0.9 h/week). Cumulative use of anticholinergic resulting in a TSDD exceeding 1,095 was significantly associated with poorer performance in Trail Making Test Part B (Model 1: β = 5.77, Model 2: β = 5.33, Model 3: β = 8.32, p < .01), indicating impairment in processing speed. CONCLUSIONS In our study, except for speed of processing, other cognitive domains measured were not affected by cumulative anticholinergic use over a 4-year period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malinee Neelamegam
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa.,Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Janice Zgibor
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Henian Chen
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | | | - Chighaf Bakour
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | | | - Kaarin J Anstey
- Centre for Research on Ageing, Health and Wellbeing, Australian National University, Canberra.,School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia
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5
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López-Álvarez J, Sevilla-Llewellyn-Jones J, Agüera-Ortiz L. Anticholinergic Drugs in Geriatric Psychopharmacology. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1309. [PMID: 31866817 PMCID: PMC6908498 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Drugs with anticholinergic action are widely prescribed in the elderly population due to their potential clinical benefits. However, these benefits are limited by adverse effects which may be serious in particular circumstances. This review presents different aspects of the use of anticholinergics in old age with a focus in psychogeriatric patients. We critically review published data on benefits and disadvantages of anticholinergics, which are often controversial. Prevalence, pathophysiology and measurement methods of the anticholinergic action of drugs are discussed. We also present the most important drawbacks resulting from its use, including effects on cognition in healthy and cognitively impaired people, in aged schizophrenia patients, emergence of delirium and psychiatric symptoms, influence in functionality, hospitalization, institutionalization and mortality, and the potential benefits and limitations of their discontinuation. Finally, we suggest practical recommendations for the safe use of anticholinergics in clinical conditions affecting elderly patients, such as dementia, schizophrenia and acute hallucinatory episodes, depression, anxiety, Parkinson's disease, cardiovascular conditions and urinary incontinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge López-Álvarez
- Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación, Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia Sevilla-Llewellyn-Jones
- Instituto de Psiquiatría y Salud Mental, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación (IdISSC), Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Agüera-Ortiz
- Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación, Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Ministry of Science and Innovation, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Medicina Legal, Psiquiatría y Patología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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6
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Ah Y, Suh Y, Jun K, Hwang S, Lee J. Effect of anticholinergic burden on treatment modification, delirium and mortality in newly diagnosed dementia patients starting a cholinesterase inhibitor: A population‐based study. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2019; 124:741-748. [DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.13184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Young‐Mi Ah
- College of Pharmacy Yeungnam University Gyeongsangbuk‐do Korea
| | - Yewon Suh
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences Seoul National University Seoul Korea
| | - Kwanghee Jun
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences Seoul National University Seoul Korea
| | - Sunghee Hwang
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology Hanyang University Ansan Korea
| | - Ju‐Yeun Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences Seoul National University Seoul Korea
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7
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Gerritsen AA, Bakker C, Verhey FR, Bor H, Pijnenburg YA, de Vugt ME, Koopmans RT. The Progression of Dementia and Cognitive Decline in a Dutch 2-Year Cohort Study of People with Young-Onset Dementia. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 63:343-351. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-170859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Adrie A.J. Gerritsen
- De Wever, Centre for Elderly Care, Tilburg, The Netherlands
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Centre for Family Medicine, Geriatric Care and Public Health, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Christian Bakker
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Centre for Family Medicine, Geriatric Care and Public Health, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Florence, Mariahoeve, Centre for Specialized Care in Young-onset Dementia, Den Haag, The Netherlands
- Radboud Alzheimer Centre, Radboud University, Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frans R.J. Verhey
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Bor
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Centre for Family Medicine, Geriatric Care and Public Health, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Yolande A.L. Pijnenburg
- Department of Neurology and Alzheimer Centre, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein E. de Vugt
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Raymond T.C.M. Koopmans
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Centre for Family Medicine, Geriatric Care and Public Health, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboud Alzheimer Centre, Radboud University, Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Joachim en Anna, Centre for Specialized Geriatric Care, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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8
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Lampela P, Tolppanen AM, Tanskanen A, Tiihonen J, Hartikainen S, Taipale H. Anticholinergic Exposure and Risk of Pneumonia in Persons with Alzheimer's Disease: A Nested Case-Control Study. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 56:119-128. [PMID: 27911327 DOI: 10.3233/jad-160956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Risk of pneumonia is increased in persons with Alzheimer's disease (AD). In some studies, anticholinergic drugs (AC) have been associated with an increased pneumonia risk. OBJECTIVE We analyzed the risk of pneumonia associated with ACs in persons with AD. METHODS We performed a nested case-control study using register-based data from a Finnish nationwide MEDALZ cohort including all community-dwelling persons diagnosed with AD during 2005-2011. Cases were identified based on pneumonia diagnoses (n = 12,442) from hospital discharge and causes of death registers. Up to two controls without pneumonia were matched based on time since AD diagnoses, age, and gender for each case; AC use was measured using Anticholinergic Drug Scale. RESULTS Use of AC was associated with an increased risk of pneumonia (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.36, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.29-1.43). However, there was no increased pneumonia risk in persons using level 3 ACs. Incident use was associated with higher risk of pneumonia (OR 2.68, 95% CI 2.15-3.34) than prevalent use (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.40-1.57). Among persons using cholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs), risk of pneumonia was increased in persons using also ACs (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.41-1.66). CONCLUSION ACs were associated with an increased risk of pneumonia in persons with AD, especially at the time of initiation of these drugs. AC use was associated with increased pneumonia risk also in persons using AChEIs. This risk should be carefully considered when treating AD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasi Lampela
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Anna-Maija Tolppanen
- Research Centre for Comparative Effectiveness and Patient Safety (RECEPS), University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Antti Tanskanen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Niuvanniemi Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jari Tiihonen
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Niuvanniemi Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Sirpa Hartikainen
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Heidi Taipale
- Kuopio Research Centre of Geriatric Care, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Research Centre for Comparative Effectiveness and Patient Safety (RECEPS), University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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9
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Morrow SA, Rosehart H, Sener A, Welk B. Anti-cholinergic medications for bladder dysfunction worsen cognition in persons with multiple sclerosis. J Neurol Sci 2017; 385:39-44. [PMID: 29406911 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2017.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Bladder dysfunction is common in persons with MS (PwMS), often due to detrusor muscle overactivity. Anticholinergic medications are considered the first line treatment for bladder dysfunction and are known to worsen cognition in healthy older adults and in persons with dementia. Yet, it is not known if these medications have the same effect on PwMS. Thus, the Objective of this prospective matched-cohort study was to determine if anticholinergic medications affect objective measures of cognition in PwMS. We recruited PwMS starting either oxybutynin or tolterodine (cases). Cases and controls were tested with the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for MS (BiCAMS) battery prior to starting anticholinergic medications and 12weeks later. The primary outcome was change on the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) between groups; secondary outcomes were changes on the other BiCAMS measures. Analysis of Covariance with baseline measures as covariates to assess the significance of between group differences was performed at 12weeks. Forty eight PwMS starting anticholinergic medications and 21 matched PwMS controls were recruited. There was a significant difference (p<0.001) in the change on the cognitive measures over 12weeks between groups. The controls demonstrated improvement, consistent with practice effect, while the cases remained unchanged. This study demonstrates that anticholinergic medications may have a negative effect on cognition in PwMS; further confirmatory studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Morrow
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Western University, London Health Sciences Center, LHSC-UH, 339 Windermere Rd, London N6A 5A5, ON, Canada.
| | - Heather Rosehart
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Center, London, ON, Canada
| | - Alp Sener
- Western University, London Health Sciences Center, London, ON, Canada
| | - Blayne Welk
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London Health Sciences Center, London, ON, Canada
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10
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Risacher SL, McDonald BC, Tallman EF, West JD, Farlow MR, Unverzagt FW, Gao S, Boustani M, Crane PK, Petersen RC, Jack CR, Jagust WJ, Aisen PS, Weiner MW, Saykin AJ. Association Between Anticholinergic Medication Use and Cognition, Brain Metabolism, and Brain Atrophy in Cognitively Normal Older Adults. JAMA Neurol 2017; 73:721-32. [PMID: 27088965 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2016.0580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The use of anticholinergic (AC) medication is linked to cognitive impairment and an increased risk of dementia. To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the association between AC medication use and neuroimaging biomarkers of brain metabolism and atrophy as a proxy for understanding the underlying biology of the clinical effects of AC medications. OBJECTIVE To assess the association between AC medication use and cognition, glucose metabolism, and brain atrophy in cognitively normal older adults from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) and the Indiana Memory and Aging Study (IMAS). DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS The ADNI and IMAS are longitudinal studies with cognitive, neuroimaging, and other data collected at regular intervals in clinical and academic research settings. For the participants in the ADNI, visits are repeated 3, 6, and 12 months after the baseline visit and then annually. For the participants in the IMAS, visits are repeated every 18 months after the baseline visit (402 cognitively normal older adults in the ADNI and 49 cognitively normal older adults in the IMAS were included in the present analysis). Participants were either taking (hereafter referred to as the AC+ participants [52 from the ADNI and 8 from the IMAS]) or not taking (hereafter referred to as the AC- participants [350 from the ADNI and 41 from the IMAS]) at least 1 medication with medium or high AC activity. Data analysis for this study was performed in November 2015. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Cognitive scores, mean fludeoxyglucose F 18 standardized uptake value ratio (participants from the ADNI only), and brain atrophy measures from structural magnetic resonance imaging were compared between AC+ participants and AC- participants after adjusting for potential confounders. The total AC burden score was calculated and was related to target measures. The association of AC use and longitudinal clinical decline (mean [SD] follow-up period, 32.1 [24.7] months [range, 6-108 months]) was examined using Cox regression. RESULTS The 52 AC+ participants (mean [SD] age, 73.3 [6.6] years) from the ADNI showed lower mean scores on Weschler Memory Scale-Revised Logical Memory Immediate Recall (raw mean scores: 13.27 for AC+ participants and 14.16 for AC- participants; P = .04) and the Trail Making Test Part B (raw mean scores: 97.85 seconds for AC+ participants and 82.61 seconds for AC- participants; P = .04) and a lower executive function composite score (raw mean scores: 0.58 for AC+ participants and 0.78 for AC- participants; P = .04) than the 350 AC- participants (mean [SD] age, 73.3 [5.8] years) from the ADNI. Reduced total cortical volume and temporal lobe cortical thickness and greater lateral ventricle and inferior lateral ventricle volumes were seen in the AC+ participants relative to the AC- participants. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The use of AC medication was associated with increased brain atrophy and dysfunction and clinical decline. Thus, use of AC medication among older adults should likely be discouraged if alternative therapies are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon L Risacher
- Center for Neuroimaging, Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University Health Neuroscience Center, Indianapolis2Indiana Alzheimer Disease Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Brenna C McDonald
- Center for Neuroimaging, Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University Health Neuroscience Center, Indianapolis2Indiana Alzheimer Disease Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Eileen F Tallman
- Center for Neuroimaging, Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University Health Neuroscience Center, Indianapolis2Indiana Alzheimer Disease Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - John D West
- Center for Neuroimaging, Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University Health Neuroscience Center, Indianapolis2Indiana Alzheimer Disease Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Martin R Farlow
- Indiana Alzheimer Disease Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis3Department of Neurology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Fredrick W Unverzagt
- Indiana Alzheimer Disease Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis4Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Sujuan Gao
- Indiana Alzheimer Disease Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis5Department of Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
| | - Malaz Boustani
- Indiana Alzheimer Disease Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis6Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Indianapolis7Regenstrief Institute Inc, Indianapolis, Indiana8Eskenzai Health, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Paul K Crane
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle
| | | | | | - William J Jagust
- Department of Neurology, University of California-Berkeley, Berkeley
| | - Paul S Aisen
- Alzheimer's Therapeutic Research Institute, University of Southern California, San Diego
| | - Michael W Weiner
- Departments of Radiology, Medicine, and Psychiatry, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco15Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Andrew J Saykin
- Center for Neuroimaging, Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University Health Neuroscience Center, Indianapolis2Indiana Alzheimer Disease Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis
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11
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Wu YH, Wang CJ, Hung CH, Chen LY, Lin MH, Wang PN, Chen LK. Association between using medications with anticholinergic properties and short-term cognitive decline among older men: A retrospective cohort study in Taiwan. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17 Suppl 1:57-64. [DOI: 10.1111/ggi.13032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Hui Wu
- Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology; Taipei Veterans General Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
- Department of Neurology; Taipei Veterans General Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
- Aging and Health Research Center; National Yang Ming University; Taipei Taiwan
| | - Chih-Jen Wang
- Department of Medicine; Changhua Christian Hospital; Changhua Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hao Hung
- Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology; Taipei Veterans General Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
- Aging and Health Research Center; National Yang Ming University; Taipei Taiwan
| | - Liang-Yu Chen
- Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology; Taipei Veterans General Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
- Aging and Health Research Center; National Yang Ming University; Taipei Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hsien Lin
- Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology; Taipei Veterans General Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
- Aging and Health Research Center; National Yang Ming University; Taipei Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ning Wang
- Department of Neurology; Taipei Veterans General Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
- Aging and Health Research Center; National Yang Ming University; Taipei Taiwan
| | - Liang-Kung Chen
- Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology; Taipei Veterans General Hospital; Taipei Taiwan
- Aging and Health Research Center; National Yang Ming University; Taipei Taiwan
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Salahudeen MS, Chyou TY, Nishtala PS. Serum Anticholinergic Activity and Cognitive and Functional Adverse Outcomes in Older People: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Literature. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0151084. [PMID: 26999286 PMCID: PMC4801377 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0151084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies have reported associations between serum anticholinergic activity (SAA) and decline in cognitive performance, delirium, and functional impairment. The aim of this meta-analysis was to explore and quantify associations between SAA and adverse cognitive and functional outcomes in older people. MATERIALS AND METHODS A literature search in Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO and IPA from 1946-2014 was completed. The primary outcomes of interest were cognitive and functional adverse outcomes associated with SAA in older people aged 55 years and above. The Cochrane Risk-Bias assessment tool was used to assess bias in randomised controlled trials (RCTs). The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of non-RCTs. Meta-analyses were conducted for RCTs and cohort studies separately. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 tests. RESULTS The primary electronic literature search identified a total of 1559 records in the 4 different databases. On the basis of full-text analysis, 33 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The review included 4 RCTs, 5 prospective cohort studies, 3 longitudinal cohort studies, 17 cross-sectional studies, and 4 case-control studies. Twenty-four of the retrieved studies examined an association between SAA and cognitive outcomes, 2 studies examined an association with SAA and functional outcomes and 8 studies examined associations between SAA and both cognitive, and functional outcomes. The meta-analysis on 4 RCTs showed no association with higher SAA and cognitive performance (I2 = 89.38%, H2 = 25.53 and p-value = <0.05) however, the pooled data from 4 observational studies showed elevated SAA was associated with reduced cognitive performance (I2 = 0.00%, H2 = 3.37 and p-value = 0.34). CONCLUSION This systematic review summarises the limitations of the SAA on predicting cognitive and functional outcomes in older people. SAA measured by receptor bioassay is flawed and its use in older people with multimorbidity and polypharmacy is questionable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Te-yuan Chyou
- School of Pharmacy, University of Otago, P O Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Prasad S. Nishtala
- School of Pharmacy, University of Otago, P O Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
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Kolanowski A, Mogle J, Fick DM, Campbell N, Hill N, Mulhall P, Behrens L, Colancecco E, Boustani M, Clare L. Anticholinergic Exposure During Rehabilitation: Cognitive and Physical Function Outcomes in Patients with Delirium Superimposed on Dementia. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2015; 23:1250-1258. [PMID: 26419732 PMCID: PMC4691545 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2015.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We examined the association between anticholinergic medication exposure and subsequent cognitive and physical function in patients with delirium superimposed on dementia during rehabilitation. We also examined length of stay and discharge disposition by anticholinergic medication exposure. DESIGN In this secondary analysis we used control group data from an ongoing randomized clinical trial. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Participants with delirium and dementia were enrolled at admission to post-acute care. These 99 participants had a mean age of 86.11 (±6.83) years; 67.6% were women; 98% were Caucasian; and 33% were positive for at least one APOE e4 allele. MEASURES We obtained daily measures of cognitive and physical function using: Digit Span; memory, orientation and attention items from the Montreal Cognitive Assessment; CLOX; the Confusion Assessment Method; and the Barthel Index. Anticholinergic medication exposure was measured weekly using the Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden Scale. RESULTS Using multilevel models for time we found that greater use of clinically relevant anticholinergic medications in the previous week reduced cognitive and physical function, as measured by Digit Span Backwards and the Barthel index, in the current week. There was no effect of anticholinergic medication use on delirium severity, and APOE status did not moderate any outcomes. Greater use of clinically relevant anticholinergic medications was related to longer length of stay but not discharge disposition. CONCLUSIONS For vulnerable older adults, anticholinergic exposure represents a potentially modifiable risk factor for poor attention, working memory, physical function, and greater length of stay during rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Kolanowski
- College of Nursing, Penn State, University Park, PA, USA.
| | | | | | - Noll Campbell
- Purdue University College of Pharmacy, West Lafayette, Indiana; Department of Pharmacy Practice
| | - Nikki Hill
- College of Nursing, Penn State, University Park, PA
| | | | - Liza Behrens
- College of Nursing, Penn State, University Park, PA
| | | | - Malaz Boustani
- Regenstrief Institute, Indianapolis, Indiana,Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Linda Clare
- REACH: The Centre for Research in Ageing and Cognitive Health, College of Life and Environmental Sciences - Psychology, Washington Singer Laboratories, Exeter EX4 4QG, United Kingdom
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Hosoi M, Hori K, Konishi K, Tani M, Tomioka H, Kitajima Y, Akashi N, Inamoto A, Kurosawa K, Yuda H, Hanashi T, Ouchi H, Hachisu M. Pharmacotherapy for Neurocognitive Disorders Based on the Hypothesis of Endogenous Appearance of Anticholinergic Activity. NEURODEGENER DIS 2015; 15:157-61. [DOI: 10.1159/000381513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Hachisu M, Konishi K, Hosoi M, Tani M, Tomioka H, Kitajima Y, Inamoto A, Hirata A, Koganemaru T, Tomita A, Akashi N, Hori K. Serum Anticholinergic Activity as an Index of Anticholinergic Activity Load in Alzheimer's Disease. NEURODEGENER DIS 2015; 15:134-9. [PMID: 26138490 DOI: 10.1159/000381483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We reported a procedure of serum anticholinergic activity (SAA) measurement and the reliability and reproducibility of the receptor binding assay, and we also described the usefulness of SAA measurement reflecting the anticholinergic activity (AA) in the central nervous system (CNS). According to the results of a 10 times repeated measurement of standard atropine binding, the relative error was between -5.5 and +3.7%, and we considered that measurement of SAA in our studies is accurate and validated. Downregulation of acetylcholine activates inflammation in both CNS and peripheral tissue, which causes AA in both sites. Therefore, changes of AA in the CNS link with SAA in the peripheral system even if a substance having AA does not penetrate through the blood-brain barrier. Then we redescribe issues that require attention in the measurement of SAA. It is generally defined that any SAA greater than the detection limit of a quantitative atropine equivalent level (≥1.95 nM in our study) is positive. According to previous studies, SAA is considered to be positive when its atropine equivalent is ≥1.95 nM and undetectable when this is <1.95 nM. Nevertheless, as a low SAA can act as AA in the CNS, we should assume that SAA might also be positive if its marker concentration is between 0 and 1.95 nM. In addition, SAA should be measured around 11 a.m. or somewhat later because of the diurnal rhythm of cortisol in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsugu Hachisu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Therapeutics, Division of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Showa University, Yokohama, Japan
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Konishi K, Hori K, Tani M, Tomioka H, Kitajima Y, Akashi N, Inamoto A, Kurosawa K, Yuda H, Hanashi T, Ouchi H, Hosoi M, Hachisu M. Hypothesis of Endogenous Anticholinergic Activity in Alzheimer's Disease. NEURODEGENER DIS 2015; 15:149-56. [PMID: 26138492 DOI: 10.1159/000381511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In this article, we review and repropose our hypothesis of the endogenous appearance of anticholinergic activity (AA) in Alzheimer's disease (AD). First, we introduce our previous articles and speculate that, because acetylcholine (ACh) regulates both cognitive function and inflammation, downregulation of this neurotransmitter causes upregulation of the inflammatory system. AA then appears endogenously with the production of cytokines and the downregulation of ACh in AD. To support our hypothesis, we present a female AD patient whose AA was considered to occur endogenously through her AD pathology. Her serum anticholinergic activity (SAA) was positive at her first visit to our memory clinic, was negative at the 1-year and 2-year follow-up visits, and had become positive again by 3 years. We speculate that the initial positive SAA was related to her AD pathology plus mental stress, and that her SAA at 3 years was related to her AD pathology only. Consequently, we believe that 2 patterns of SAA positivity (and therefore AA) exist. One occurs when the downregulation of ACh reaches a critical level, and the other occurs with the addition of some other factor such as medication, induced illness or mental stress that causes AA to affect AD pathology. Finally, we consider the pharmacotherapy of AD based on the proposed hypothesis and conclude that cholinesterase inhibitors can be used to prevent rapid disease progression, whereas N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists should be reserved for the treatment of AD that is already in a stage of rapid progression. We also propose a staging schema for patients with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimiko Konishi
- Department of Psychiatry, Showa University Northern Yokohama Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
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Hori K, Hachisu M, Tomioka H, Konishi K. Anticholinergic Activity and Alzheimer's Disease. NEURODEGENER DIS 2015; 15:131-3. [DOI: 10.1159/000381482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Gadzhanova S, Roughead E, Robinson M. Use of Medicines with Anticholinergic and Sedative Effect Before and After Initiation of Anti-Dementia Medications. Drugs Real World Outcomes 2015; 2:53-60. [PMID: 27747617 PMCID: PMC4883199 DOI: 10.1007/s40801-015-0012-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with dementia may be particularly sensitive to cognitive impairment induced by anticholinergic and sedative medicines. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine if utilisation of medicines with anticholinergic and sedative effects changed before and after initiation of anti-dementia therapy. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted using Australian pharmacy claim data (Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme). People with first (index) dispensing for a cholinesterase inhibitor or memantine between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2010 who were aged 65 years or over at the time of initiation were included. The proportion who received sedatives or anticholinergics in the 6 months prior to and post initiation of anti-dementia therapy was determined. RESULTS The cohort included 24,110 patients, with over half aged 75-84 years. Overall, 30 % received any class of anticholinergic or sedative medicine for at least 1 month in the 6 months prior to initiation of anti-dementia agents, and 36 % post initiation. Some patients (6 %) ceased anticholinergics or sedatives post initiation even though they had them in the months prior. However, 12 % commenced therapy with anticholinergics or sedatives post anti-dementia therapy initiation even though they were naïve to them in the 6 months prior to therapy. CONCLUSION Medicines with anticholinergic or sedative effects were commonly dispensed in one-third of people with dementia. Prescribers need to consider a review of patients on anticholinergic therapy with cholinesterase inhibitors as the effectiveness of the cholinesterase therapy may be compromised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetla Gadzhanova
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, Sansom Institute, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Elizabeth Roughead
- Quality Use of Medicines and Pharmacy Research Centre, Sansom Institute, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Maxine Robinson
- Post Market Review Section, Pharmaceutical Evaluation Branch, Pharmaceutical Benefits Division, Department of Health, Canberra, Australia
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López-Álvarez J, Zea Sevilla MA, Agüera Ortiz L, Fernández Blázquez MÁ, Valentí Soler M, Martínez-Martín P. Efecto de los fármacos anticolinérgicos en el rendimiento cognitivo de las personas mayores. REVISTA DE PSIQUIATRIA Y SALUD MENTAL 2015; 8:35-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rpsm.2013.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2013] [Revised: 10/12/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Serum anticholinergic activity: a possible peripheral marker of the anticholinergic burden in the central nervous system in Alzheimer's disease. DISEASE MARKERS 2014; 2014:459013. [PMID: 24665147 PMCID: PMC3934106 DOI: 10.1155/2014/459013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2013] [Revised: 12/15/2013] [Accepted: 12/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We review the utility of serum anticholinergic activity (SAA) as a peripheral marker of anticholinergic activity (AA) in the central nervous system (CAA). We hypothesize that the compensatory mechanisms of the cholinergic system do not contribute to SAA if their system is intact and that if central cholinergic system deteriorates alone in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or Lewy body dementia, CAA and SAA are caused by way of hyperactivity of inflammatory system and SAA is a marker of the anticholinergic burden in CNS. Taking into account the diurnal variations in the plasma levels of corticosteroids, which are thought to affect SAA, it should be measured at noon or just afterward.
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Konishi K, Hori K, Tomioka H, Minegishi G, Tani M, Tanaka H, Akita R, Yokoyama S, Oshio T, Hachisu M. Donepezil abolishes anticholinergic activity in a patient with amnesia. Pharmacology 2012; 91:86-91. [PMID: 23258422 DOI: 10.1159/000345344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2012] [Accepted: 10/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We report the case of a 74-year-old woman who presented with amnesia and positive serum anticholinergic activity (SAA), which disappeared after treatment with the cholinesterase inhibitor donepezil for 1 year. Her only other regular medications were topical glaucoma preparations. We suggest that mental stress, mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease pathology combined to generate SAA in this patient. We also consider that SAA may have subsequently become negative because of upregulation of acetylcholine production by donepezil, and because the patient's other medications and physical condition (including glaucoma) remained unchanged during the 1-year period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimiko Konishi
- Department of Psychiatry, Showa University Northern Yokohama Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
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Konishi K, Hori K, Tomioka H, Tani M, Tanaka H, Akita R, Yokoyama S, Oshio T, Hachisu M. Is anticholinergic activity related with Parkinson's disease? Psychogeriatrics 2012; 12:214. [PMID: 22994621 DOI: 10.1111/j.1479-8301.2011.00392.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Andersen F, Viitanen M, Halvorsen DS, Straume B, Engstad TA. Co-morbidity and drug treatment in Alzheimer's disease. A cross sectional study of participants in the dementia study in northern Norway. BMC Geriatr 2011; 11:58. [PMID: 21970467 PMCID: PMC3204237 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2318-11-58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2011] [Accepted: 10/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Inappropriate medical treatment of co-morbidities in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an increasing concern in geriatric medicine. The objective of this study was to compare current drug use related to co-morbidity between individuals with a recent diagnosis of AD and a cognitively healthy control group in a population based clinical trial in Northern Norway. Methods Setting: Nine rural municipalities with 70 000 inhabitants in Northern Norway. Participants: Participants with and without AD recruited in general practice and by population based screening. 187 participants with a recent diagnosis of AD were recruited among community dwellers. Of 791 respondents without cognitive symptoms, 500 were randomly selected and invited to further clinical and cognitive testing. The final control group consisted of 200 cognitively healthy individuals from the same municipalities. Demographic characteristics, data on medical history and current medication were included, and a physical and cognitive examination was performed. The statistical analyses were carried out by independent sample t-test, chi-square, ANCOVA and logistic regression. Results A co-morbidity score was significantly higher in AD participants compared to controls. The mean number of drugs was higher for AD participants compared to controls (5.1 ± 3.6 and 2.9 ± 2.4 respectively, p < 0.001 age and gender adjusted), also when adjusted for co-morbidity. AD participants used significantly more anticholinergic, sedative and antidepressant drugs. For nursing home residents with AD the mean number of drugs was significantly higher compared to AD participants living at home (6.9 ± 3.9 and 4.5 ± 3.3, respectively, p < 0.001). Conclusions AD participants were treated with a significantly higher number of drugs as compared to cognitively healthy controls, even after adjustment for co-morbidity. An inappropriate use of anticholinergic and sedative drugs was identified, especially among nursing home residents with AD. The drug burden and the increased risk of adverse reactions among individuals suffering from AD need more attention from prescribing doctors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Andersen
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Tromsø, and Department of Medicine, University Hospital, (Breivika), Tromsø, (9037), Norway.
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Anticholinergic Medications and Cognition. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2011; 12:543-543.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2011.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2011] [Accepted: 07/14/2011] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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