Commonly prescribed medications for conditions including COPD, bladder problems, and Parkinson's disease could be accelerating the ageing process in older adults, according to new research.
A study published in JAMA Open Network has found that higher exposure to anticholinergic drugs is linked to faster physical decline, specifically in walking speed.
The research monitored more than 4,000 older adults over several years, tracking their medication use and physical performance from February 1994 to March 2020.
Scientists discovered that whilst grip strength remained unaffected, those with greater exposure to these medications experienced more rapid deterioration in their walking speed over time.
Exposure to the medication could lead to rapid deterioration in walking speed
GETTYAnticholinergic drugs work by blocking acetylcholine, a crucial nerve-to-nerve signalling molecule that plays a vital role in nervous system function.
By inhibiting this molecule, the medications affect multiple bodily functions controlled by the nervous system.
These drugs are prescribed for various conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bladder illnesses and Parkinson's disease.
While their sedative and cognitive side effects can be reversed when the medication is stopped, the long-term impact on physical function has remained unclear.
Previous research suggested that regular use of anticholinergics might have consistent effects over time, with all past exposure potentially contributing to physical decline.
The latest research examined the effects of cumulative exposure to these drugs over a decade, taking into account varying intensity, duration and timing of past intake.
"Higher anticholinergic exposure was associated with accelerated decline in physical performance," the scientists wrote.
They added: "The accumulation of loss over time can become clinically meaningful."
The findings carry particular significance as frailty and changes in balance and gait are increasingly associated with poor health outcomes, including disability and mortality.
Researchers noted they provided "novel findings by considering time-varying anticholinergic exposure and examining the annual change rate of physical performance."
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Frailty and changes in balance and gait are increasingly associated with poor health outcomes
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The researchers are calling for medical professionals to minimise prescriptions of anticholinergic medications to support healthy ageing.
"Anticholinergics are associated with numerous adverse outcomes in older adults. Therefore, it is essential for clinicians to avoid their use whenever possible, prescribe the lowest effective dose and periodically reevaluate patients to identify de-prescribing opportunities to minimise potential harms," they wrote.
The study authors emphasised the importance of regular reviews to assess whether patients still require these medications.
Their recommendations come as part of broader efforts to reduce unnecessary medication use in older populations and promote healthier ageing outcomes.