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New research no cause for panic
Epilepsy Society is urging people not to stop taking the anti-epileptic drugs carbazmepine and oxcarbazepine, following reports today that they are among commonly used drugs which appear to increase the risks of cognitive impairment and death in older people.
New research, led by the University of East Anglia, analysed more than 80 common over- the-counter and prescription drugs for a ‘anticholinergic activity’ – a potential side effect which affects the brain by blocking a key neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. Findings among the 13,000 over 65s who took part in the study, showed that the odds of brain dysfunction and the risk of death were greater for those taking anticholingeric medications.
The drugs were ranked from one (mild) to three (serious) according to the strength of this activity. Carbamazapine and oxcarbazepine were rated a moderate risk.
Professor Ley Sander, Epilepsy Society’s chair of epilepsy said: “It’s very important that people with epilepsy do not panic and do not stop taking their medication without consulting their GP or neurologist.”
> You can read the full report on the University of East Anglia's website
