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Sleep Health | Last Active: Nov 28, 2023 | Replies (22)
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Older persons should be careful when taking antihistamines. Doxylamine succinate (often branded Unisom) and diphenhydramine (often branded Benadryl) are first-generation antihistamines. These antihistamines are anticholinergics that downregulate the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. These antihistamines cross the blood-brain barrier and are contraindicated for older patients, such as myself, due to their tendency to impair cognition.
Second generation antihistamines such as cetirizine (often branded Zyrtec) and fexofenadine (often branded Allegra) are less able to cross the blood brain barrier and are thus safer for us older patients, tho, for the same reason, they produce less drowsiness in most people.
Replies to "Older persons should be careful when taking antihistamines. Doxylamine succinate (often branded Unisom) and diphenhydramine (often..."
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I don't think people give melatonin as much of a trial as they should. I have heard that some antihistamines such as doxylamine succinate may impair cognition, but I'd like to see the report and if it was widespread. I'd say there are supplements such as sage extract are helpful for memory retention, and melatonin helps too. Sometimes the media exaggerates the effects of some meds. Like Ambien for instance - it is extremely rare for anyone to have the "non-conscious sleepwalking" side effect the media exaggerated. A good-sized Mayo Clinic study explained the condition is rare, and most doctors will not pay attention to the Mayo Clinic report, they stick with their initial misinformative opinions.