The Older Brain on Drugs: Substances That May Cause Cognitive Impairment

Jenny Rogers, MD; Bonnie S. Wiese, MD; Kiran Rabheru, MD, CCFP, FRCP

Geriatrics and Aging. 2008;11(5):284-289.

Reversability of Alcohol-Induced Dementia

There is demonstrated gradual improvement of cognitive ability with prolonged abstinence.^[22] However, in an apparently clinically healthy population of abstinent alcohol-dependent subjects, deficient verbal and nonverbal abstraction, along with altered visuo-motor coordination, learning, and memory have been reported to persist despite prolonged periods of abstinence.^[26] Such deficits in executive functioning, learning, and concentration may to lead to poor treatment outcomes even in alcohol-dependent individuals who appear to be healthy and wish to limit their drinking.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Next Section

Cite this: The Older Brain on Drugs: Substances That May Cause Cognitive Impairment - Medscape - Jun 01, 2008.

Abstract and Introduction
Alcohol Use and Cognitive Impairment Among Older Adults
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome
Alcohol-Related Dementia
Reversability of Alcohol-Induced Dementia
Marijuana
Opiates
Benzodiazepines
Anticholinergics and Other Drugs to Avoid
Polypharmacy
Conclusion
References
Sidebar: Key Points

Comments

Commenting is limited to medical professionals. To comment please Log-in.

Comments on Medscape are moderated and should be professional in tone and on topic. You must declare any conflicts of interest related to your comments and responses. Please see our Commenting Guide for further information. We reserve the right to remove posts at our sole discretion.