Which drugs are the most dangerous?
The higher the anticholinergic impact of the drug – how much it blocks acetylcholine – the more dangerous it is likely to be. But the real risk comes from the cumulative effect of taking several such medications, which all add to the overall burden.
Are any of the side-effects noticeable?
People suffering from anticholinergic effects may have a dry mouth, dizziness, blurry vision, difficulty passing urine, constipation or might feel confused or drowsy.
Why are only elderly people affected?
The brain's protection systems can weaken in old age, meaning drugs that would not normally reach it can do so through the blood. A study in America is examining whether the drugs have any effect on younger intensive care patients.
Is the anticholinergic effect definitely to blame for the increased risk of death, rather than the underlying disease the drugs are meant to treat?
In their analysis, the researchers accounted for underlying diseases wherever possible, and found the increased risk of death appeared to be directly linked to the anticholinergic effects.
What should patients do?
Researchers urged patients not to panic but to consult their doctor about what drugs they are taking, and consider alternatives which do not have the same effect.
Where no alternatives are available, patients should continue to use the drugs under the supervision of their doctor. They should not stop taking prescribed medication without consulting a doctor.
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