All articles tagged with #medication risks
A study found that pregabalin, a common pain medication, is associated with an increased risk of heart failure in older adults, especially those with existing cardiovascular disease, suggesting clinicians should carefully weigh its risks and benefits.
A study links the use of gabapentin, a drug for nerve pain and epilepsy, with an increased risk of dementia and mild cognitive impairment, especially among younger adults, prompting physicians to monitor cognitive health in patients prescribed the medication.
Recent research suggests a significant association between the use of gabapentin, a common medication for chronic pain, and an increased risk of developing dementia and cognitive impairment, prompting calls for more cautious prescribing and monitoring by healthcare providers.
A large U.S. study found that adults prescribed gabapentin six or more times for chronic low back pain have significantly higher risks of developing dementia and mild cognitive impairment within 10 years, especially among those aged 35–64, suggesting a potential link between the medication and cognitive decline that warrants close monitoring.
Taking excessive prescription medications can be very risky for older adults, leading to dangerous interactions and side effects such as confusion, unsteadiness, and blood pressure issues, as illustrated by the case of Argie, a woman in her 70s experiencing health problems potentially linked to polypharmacy.
The article discusses the potential risks and side effects of ADHD medications, such as heart problems and psychiatric issues, highlighting concerns over their long-term safety and the importance of proper diagnosis and monitoring. It also explores alternative treatments like therapy and diet, emphasizing cautious use of medication and the need for personalized care.
New research suggests that certain anticholinergic medications used to treat overactive bladders may increase the risk of dementia by up to 31%, particularly in older adults. The study, involving nearly 1 million Brits, found that drugs like oxybutynin hydrochloride and tolterodine tartrate are linked to a higher dementia risk, while others like darifenacin and mirabegron showed no clear association. Experts recommend considering alternative treatments to mitigate potential long-term risks.
A study by the University of Nottingham warns that long-term use of certain anticholinergic drugs, commonly prescribed for conditions like bladder issues and Parkinson's disease, may increase the risk of dementia by nearly 50% in patients over 55. The research, supported by the National Institute for Health Research, highlights the need for caution in prescribing these medications, particularly to middle-aged and elderly individuals. While the study emphasizes the potential risks, it also advises against abruptly stopping these drugs without consulting a healthcare provider.
Pfizer is facing a lawsuit alleging it failed to warn patients that its contraceptive drug Depo-Provera could increase the risk of brain tumors, specifically intracranial meningioma. The complaint, filed in California, claims that research links Depo-Provera and similar progesterone medications to a higher incidence of these tumors. The lawsuit follows similar cases in other states, while Pfizer maintains that Depo-Provera has been a safe and effective treatment for over 30 years. The drug's U.S. label does not currently warn of this risk, unlike in the EU and UK.
Johann Hari lost 42 pounds using Ozempic, a drug initially for Type 2 diabetes but also effective for weight loss. Despite the physical benefits, Hari experienced psychological challenges, including an inability to comfort eat, which led to emotional discomfort. Experts acknowledge the lack of long-term studies on the drug's safety but note its reassuring track record in treating diabetes. Hari plans to continue using Ozempic due to his family's heart disease history, despite concerns about potential long-term risks.
Johann Hari lost 42 pounds using Ozempic and Wegovy, drugs initially for Type 2 diabetes but also effective for weight loss. Despite the physical benefits, Hari experienced psychological challenges, including an inability to comfort eat, which led to emotional discomfort. He highlights the unknown long-term risks of these medications, despite their current benefits in reducing heart disease risk. Experts acknowledge the lack of long-term studies but note the reassuring track record of GLP-1 medications for diabetes. Hari's experience underscores the complex balance of benefits and risks associated with these weight-loss drugs.
A study suggests that patients taking weight management drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, which are GLP-1 agonist drugs, should suspend their intake before undergoing endoscopy procedures to reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia. These drugs slow down digestion and food retention in the stomach, increasing the chance of aspiration during sedation for procedures. While the overall risk of aspiration is low, temporarily holding these medications prior to procedures can significantly reduce the risk, potentially saving lives and hospitalizations.