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Unexpected effect of common painkillers on intelligence and thinking speed!





A recent study conducted by University College London revealed that some painkillers may affect cognitive abilities, as some can enhance memory and intelligence, while others may have negative effects.


Researchers analyzed data from about half a million men and women with an average age of 73 in the United Kingdom, with the aim of studying the cognitive effects of medications used to treat pain, inflammation, osteoporosis, heart disease, asthma, allergies and high blood pressure.


The results showed that some medications had a positive effect on cognition, as people who used them outperformed those who did not take them in memory and reaction tests. These medications include aspirin, codeine, diclofenac (Voltaren), in addition to omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, atorvastatin, omeprazole, lansoprazole and multivitamin supplements.


The researchers found that ibuprofen, a common painkiller used to treat headaches, toothaches, backaches, and cold symptoms, may help improve reaction time and mental abilities, making it as beneficial to the brain as it is to lower high blood pressure.


In contrast, the researchers found that paracetamol and fluoxetine (a prescription antidepressant) had the greatest negative effects on memory and problem solving. Amitriptyline, a drug used to treat migraines, was also associated with a significant decline in cognitive abilities.


The researchers stressed that their study only indicates a relationship between the use of these drugs and cognitive effects, but does not directly prove that they are the cause. However, they stressed the need to include cognitive assessments in future clinical trials of all new drugs, to ensure that the safest and most effective treatments are selected for patients.


Professor Martin Rossor, a neuroscientist and lead author of the study, explained: “The cognitive side effects of common medications can have a significant impact and should be considered in clinical trials to ensure long-term patient safety.”


The researchers noted that studies on the effects of drugs on cognitive abilities are still limited, particularly as most users are elderly and often take several medications at the same time, making it difficult to determine the exact effect of each drug. Any cognitive decline could also be wrongly attributed to ageing rather than the effect of the drug itself.


The study was published in the journal Brain and Behaviour.


Source: Daily Mail - Published 2-2-2025 https://ar.rt.com/z7i9

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