[Medication and memory: interactions among the elderly].
Several different systems govern human memory, and different drugs may act specifically on one or more of them. The central nervous system in the elderly is particularly sensitive to drugs, and an iatrogenic cause must be sought for all recent and/or sudden alterations in memory functions. In the case of recent alterations in memory, all nonessential drugs, especially psychotropic agents; should be withdrawn or reduced. Elderly persons, especially those with dementia, are at risk because of the frequent and substantial effects of drugs on their memory: the benefit-risk ratio must be evaluated regularly and essential treatments maintained.
Caer-Frouard
Morgane
M
Service de gériatrie aiguë et de soins de suite, Hôpital Rothschild, Paris. m.frouard@ch-sainte-anne.fr
Weill-Engerer
Sébastien
S
Piette
François
F
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000009:adverse effects; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000700:Analgesics / Q000009:adverse effects; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000009:adverse effects; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D018680:Cholinergic Antagonists / Q000009:adverse effects; D004347:Drug Interactions; D064420:Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease; D018020:Lithium Compounds / Q000009:adverse effects; D008568:Memory / Q000187:drug effects; D008569:Memory Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced*; D008570:Memory, Short-Term / Q000187:drug effects; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy; D011619:Psychotropic Drugs / Q000009:adverse effects; D018570:Risk Assessment
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000700:Analgesics; D000927:Anticonvulsants; D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents; D018680:Cholinergic Antagonists; D018020:Lithium Compounds; D011619:Psychotropic Drugs