New research links sleeping pill use to Alzheimer’s risk in older adults. So if you’re using these sleep aids, you might want to keep reading.
Although the study cannot prove that sleeping pills cause dementia, it does show a link that requires further exploration.
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According to the researchers involved in the study, sleeping pills are one of the most commonly used medications among older adults, but their frequent use may not come without consequences.
The team found that participants reporting that they “often” or “almost always” took sleeping pills had a 79 percent higher risk of developing dementia compared to those who said they “never” or “rarely” used them.
Interestingly, the connection was only seen in white participants. There was no connection between sleeping pill use and dementia risk in Black participants. Roughly 60 percent of the participants were white, and about 40 percent were Black.
Researchers looked at about 3,000 seniors who shared their sleeping medication routines starting in 1997. There were between 70 and 79 years old none had dementia. They were asked about sleeping aid use three times over five years: never, rarely (once a month or less), sometimes (2-4 times per month), often (5-15 times per month), or almost always (more than 15 times).
Sleep aids included both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications. OTCs included antihistamines, melatonin, and valerian. Prescription medications included antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and zolpidem (Ambien).
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Of course, the reason for the link needs to be examined much more closely. People who have worse sleep habits have a higher dementia risk, and taking sleeping pills indicates poor sleeping habits.
It’s also important to talk to your doctor if you are taking sleep aids. It is possible that they may interact with other medications you are taking.
Before looking to medications, try other ways to get better sleep. This could include visiting a sleep clinic to identify issues like sleep apnea or using lifestyle modifications to improve sleep hygiene.
About eight years ago, Mat Lecompte had an epiphany. He’d been ignoring his health and suddenly realized he needed to do something about it. Since then, through hard work, determination and plenty of education, he has transformed his life. He’s changed his body composition by learning the ins and outs of nutrition, exercise, and fitness and wants to share his knowledge with you. Starting as a journalist over 10 years ago, Mat has not only honed his belief system and approach with practical experience, but he has also worked closely with nutritionists, dieticians, athletes, and fitness professionals. He embraces natural healing methods and believes that diet, exercise and willpower are the foundation of a healthy, happy, and drug-free existence.
