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Psychotropic drug use and cognitive decline among older men and women
Author(s)Marie-José Dealberto, Gail J McAvay, Teresa Seeman
Journal titleInternational Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, vol 12, no 5, May 1997
Pagespp 567-574
KeywordsDrugs ; Cognitive impairment ; Depression ; Longitudinal surveys ; United States of America.
AnnotationA sample from the New Haven EPESE survey (Established Populations for Epidemiologic Studies in the Elderly) was assessed for cognitive functioning and decline (defined as an increase of more than 2 errors) in 1988 relative to 1982. Four patterns of intake for benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepines were considered: no reported use; continuous use; temporary use in 1982; and new use at 1988. Cognitive decline was shown to be associated with gender, level of education and new medical condition. It was also related to depressive symptomatology and psychotropic drug use. These two factors were most strongly associated with decrease in performance. Cognitive decline differed according to class of drugs and pattern of use: benzodiazepine temporary users exhibited a lower risk compared with never users, non-benzodiazepine new users at higher risk. The importance of considering psychotropic drugs in studies of cognitive decline in older people is emphasised.
Accession NumberCPA-970905014 A
ClassmarkLLD: E4: ENR: 3J: 7T

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