Page 115 - The Memory Program How to Prevent Memory Loss and Enhance Memory Power

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Steroids

Steroids like hydrocortisone and prednisone are used to treat severe asthma and autoimmune diseases
like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus). Many skin creams and
ointments also contain steroids, but these are not absorbed in sufficient quantities to affect the brain.
Steroids work by suppressing the body's natural immune response against bacteria, viruses, and
toxins, and this helps in diseases where there is a wayward, self-destructive immune response.
Steroids have a number of side effects, including stomach ulceration and weakening of bone
structure (osteoporosis). In high doses, steroids can affect the brain, causing memory loss, confusion,
and even psychosis. But subtle effects— particularly low-grade depression, anxiety, and memory
loss— are far more common.

You may recall Sapolsky's theory that high levels of circulating steroids causing hippocampal
neuronal loss lead to memory deficits, though whether this occurs clinically remains unclear. If
you're on steroids and feel that your memory has begun to decline, report this symptom to your
doctor, who may choose to stop the medication or lower the dose.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines comprise another class of medications that can cause subtle memory loss. From the
1960s to the 1980s, whenever patients seemed anxious or complained about sleeplessness, physicians
routinely prescribed benzodiazepines. Over time, it became clear that benzodiazepines like diazepam
(Valium) and flurazepam (Dalmane, “mother's helper’’ for sleep) had addictive properties. In the
United States, many states have passed regulations that place benzodiazepines under the class of
controlled substances, thus making them more difficult to prescribe. Nevertheless, most doctors still
prescribe them, although on a more limited basis, because the other available antianxiety medications
are not as effective.

Benzodiazepines can reduce concentration and cause mild memory loss. In elderly people,
benzodiazepine use can lead to confusion, unsteady gait, and falls. Benzodiazepines need to be
gradually tapered to reduce the risk of severe panic or seizures that can occur after sudden
withdrawal.

Anticholinergic Medications

Acetylcholine is central to memory and attention, and it is present in high concentrations in the
hippocampus and neighboring regions.