Study Links Anxiety, Depression, and Sleep Medicines to Higher Risk of Neurological Disease
A recent study published in JAMA Neurology suggests that commonly prescribed medications for anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders may increase the risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disorder. The study found that individuals using these medications were more likely to be diagnosed with ALS later in life, with a poorer prognosis. However, experts caution that the association does not prove causation.
Commonly prescribed medicines for anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders may increase the risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disease, as per a recent study in JAMA Neurology. The study found that individuals prescribed these medications were more likely to be diagnosed with ALS later in life. People using these medications before ALS diagnosis had a poorer prognosis. Experts suggest the link may reflect early neurological changes rather than the drugs' harmful effects.
The study, conducted in Sweden, analyzed data from over 1,000 ALS patients and 5,000 healthy individuals. These medications may interfere with motor neuron activity and lead to muscle weakness, affecting daily tasks. While the exact timeline between medication use and ALS onset is unclear, prolonged use appears to increase ALS risk, especially in younger patients. There's no definitive proof that these medications cause ALS, but caution is advised when prescribing them to individuals with neurological signs.
Patients should not stop medications without consulting healthcare providers if concerned.
According to the source: The Economic Times.
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