{"formatVersion":"1.1","id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia","path":"/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia","title":"Antidepressants and Dementia","family":"Library detail","description":"Discover what current research says about antidepressants and their potential link to dementia, including key findings on three medication types.","language":"en-US","access":{"audience":"public","indexable":true},"provenance":{"sourceUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia","wordpressId":"626","contentCompleteness":"complete","dateScope":"original-source"},"authors":[{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/nikki-seay#person","name":"Nikki Seay","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/nikki-seay"}],"reviewer":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/shivani-kharod#person","name":"Shivani Kharod, Ph.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/shivani-kharod"},"dates":{"datePublished":"2025-06-06T09:18:24Z","dateModified":"2026-10-10T03:00:20Z","lastReviewed":"2025-06-06"},"content":{"html":"<nav aria-label=\"Breadcrumb\" class=\"breadcrumbs\"><ol><li><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/\">Home</a></li><li><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library\">Library</a></li><li><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/medical-conditions\">Medical Conditions</a></li><li><span aria-current=\"page\">Antidepressants and Dementia</span></li></ol></nav><div class=\"article-page article-standard\" data-library-standard=\"\"><div class=\"article-main-grid\"><header class=\"article-heading\"><h1>Antidepressants and Dementia</h1><p class=\"article-inline-credits\"><span>Written by <a class=\"article-credit-person\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/nikki-seay\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"22\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/e9d82387f863009a2622954b.jpg\" width=\"22\" decoding=\"async\">Nikki Seay</a></span><span>Medically reviewed by <a class=\"article-credit-person\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/shivani-kharod\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"22\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/d298e1ab0221c766e22a9fce.jpg\" width=\"22\" decoding=\"async\">Shivani Kharod, Ph.D.</a></span></p><div class=\"article-dates\"><span>Published on <time datetime=\"2025-06-06T09:18:24Z\">June 6, 2025</time></span><span aria-hidden=\"true\"> · </span><span>Updated on <time datetime=\"2026-10-10T03:00:20Z\">October 9, 2026</time></span></div></header><div class=\"article-jumpbar\"></div><div class=\"article-layout\"><div class=\"article-reading\"><article class=\"prose\" id=\"article-content\"><div class=\"article-intro\" data-source-field=\"hero\"><p>Dementia is a general term that represents a group of progressive diseases that can affect thinking, memory, personality, mood, and behavior. To help alleviate some of the symptoms of dementia, medical professionals often prescribe <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants\">antidepressants</a>.</p><p>With the prevalence of dementia increasing due to an aging global population, evaluating antidepressant safety and efficacy is essential. In particular, one area of concern is the potential link between antidepressant medications and the development of dementia.</p></div><figure class=\"article-feature\"><img alt=\"A healthcare professional listens to a woman in a consultation room.\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"800\" loading=\"eager\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/3eeba4818741bd28551f3b2d.webp\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"/assets/responsive/7d7615dc7bdb475521f3774b.webp 800w, /assets/optimized/3eeba4818741bd28551f3b2d.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 1200px\"></figure><section aria-labelledby=\"key-takeaways\" class=\"article-takeaways\"><h2 id=\"key-takeaways\">Key takeaways</h2><ul><li>Antidepressants may help manage depression or anxiety in people with dementia, but their relationship with cognitive decline remains uncertain.</li><li>Some observational studies link particular medications or longer exposure with greater dementia risk or faster decline without establishing causation.</li><li>Treatment decisions involve weighing symptom relief against potential harms alongside established medical and lifestyle risk factors.</li></ul></section><h2 id=\"the-use-of-antidepressants-for-dementia\">The Use of Antidepressants for Dementia</h2><p>The relationship between antidepressant use and the risk of dementia is complex and isn’t yet fully understood. Healthcare providers commonly prescribe antidepressants to manage the depression, anxiety, and agitation that can accompany dementia.</p><p>While they don’t cure psychiatric disorders or mood disorders, antidepressants help relieve symptoms by altering the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain (specifically serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine) that affect mood and emotions⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#antidepressants\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 1: Cleveland Clinic. (2023, March 1). Antidepressants. Cleveland Clinic; Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"1\">[1]</a></sup>. </p><p><a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants\">Antidepressants</a> include SSRIs, SNRIs, and older classes such as tricyclics and MAOIs. Choosing a medicine requires an individual assessment of benefits, adverse effects, and other treatments<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#nimh-mental-health-medications\" data-reference-link=\"\" data-reference-number=\"10\" aria-label=\"Reference 10: National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Mental Health Medications. National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.\">[10]</a></sup>.</p><p>These should not be confused with dementia medicines. Memantine is an NMDA-receptor antagonist used for symptoms of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease; it is not an antidepressant treatment for depression<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#nia-alzheimers-treatment\" data-reference-link=\"\" data-reference-number=\"9\" aria-label=\"Reference 9: National Institute on Aging. (n.d.). How Is Alzheimer’s Disease Treated? National Institutes of Health. National Institute on Aging. Accessed October 10 2026.\">[9]</a></sup>.</p><p>Since people can often remain on these medications for years or even decades, researchers recognized the need to explore the potential cumulative effects of antidepressants, including cognitive decline and dementia risk⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#antidepressant-use-relation-dementia-risk-cognitive-decline-brain-atrophy\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 2: Ilse vom Hofe, Stricker, B. H., Vernooij, M. W., M. Kamran Ikram, M. Arfan Ikram, &amp; Wolters, F. J. (2024). Antidepressant use in relation to dementia risk, cognitive decline, and brain atrophy. Alzheimer’s &amp; Dementia, 20(5). Wiley. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"2\">[2]</a></sup>.</p><h2 id=\"studies-linking-antidepressants-and-dementia\">Studies Linking Antidepressants and Dementia</h2><p>Dementia symptoms can worsen cognitive decline and impair quality of life, so proper treatment is important. Antidepressants have been linked to cognitive decline and dementia, but findings have been mixed so far.</p><p>The studies below examine different questions: developing dementia in the first place and cognitive change after a dementia diagnosis. Most are observational, so differences in depression, underlying illness, and prescribing can complicate interpretation. Associations do not establish that medication caused the outcome<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#antidepressant-use-relation-dementia-risk-cognitive-decline-brain-atrophy\" data-reference-link=\"\" data-reference-number=\"2\" aria-label=\"Reference 2: Ilse vom Hofe, Stricker, B. H., Vernooij, M. W., M. Kamran Ikram, M. Arfan Ikram, &amp; Wolters, F. J. (2024). Antidepressant use in relation to dementia risk, cognitive decline, and brain atrophy. Alzheimer’s &amp; Dementia, 20(5). Wiley. Accessed October 10 2026.\">[2]</a></sup><sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#antidepressant-use-cognitive-decline-patients-dementia-national-cohort-study\" data-reference-link=\"\" data-reference-number=\"3\" aria-label=\"Reference 3: Mo, M., Abzhandadze, T., Hoang, M. T., Sacuiu, S., Jurado, P. G., Pereira, J. B., Naia, L., Kele, J., Maioli, S., Xu, H., Eriksdotter, M., &amp; Garcia-Ptacek, S. (2025). Antidepressant use and cognitive decline in patients with dementia: a national cohort study. BMC Medicine, 23(1). Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.\">[3]</a></sup>.</p><p>Evidence is not uniformly negative. A 2024 population-based study found no consistent association between antidepressant use and long-term dementia risk, accelerated cognitive decline, or brain atrophy. That finding provides important context for studies reporting an association<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#antidepressant-use-relation-dementia-risk-cognitive-decline-brain-atrophy\" data-reference-link=\"\" data-reference-number=\"2\" aria-label=\"Reference 2: Ilse vom Hofe, Stricker, B. H., Vernooij, M. W., M. Kamran Ikram, M. Arfan Ikram, &amp; Wolters, F. J. (2024). Antidepressant use in relation to dementia risk, cognitive decline, and brain atrophy. Alzheimer’s &amp; Dementia, 20(5). Wiley. Accessed October 10 2026.\">[2]</a></sup>.</p><h2 id=\"study-on-ssris-and-dementia\">Study on SSRIs and Dementia</h2><p>Using data from 18,740 patients in the Swedish Dementia Registry, researchers found that people taking antidepressants, particularly <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants\">selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)</a>, experienced a faster rate of cognitive decline than those who did not take these medications⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#antidepressant-use-cognitive-decline-patients-dementia-national-cohort-study\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 3: Mo, M., Abzhandadze, T., Hoang, M. T., Sacuiu, S., Jurado, P. G., Pereira, J. B., Naia, L., Kele, J., Maioli, S., Xu, H., Eriksdotter, M., &amp; Garcia-Ptacek, S. (2025). Antidepressant use and cognitive decline in patients with dementia: a national cohort study. BMC Medicine, 23(1). Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"3\">[3]</a></sup>. </p><p>Published in 2025, the study analyzed dementia patients who were newly prescribed antidepressants after their diagnosis⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#antidepressant-use-cognitive-decline-patients-dementia-national-cohort-study\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 3: Mo, M., Abzhandadze, T., Hoang, M. T., Sacuiu, S., Jurado, P. G., Pereira, J. B., Naia, L., Kele, J., Maioli, S., Xu, H., Eriksdotter, M., &amp; Garcia-Ptacek, S. (2025). Antidepressant use and cognitive decline in patients with dementia: a national cohort study. BMC Medicine, 23(1). Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"3\">[3]</a></sup>. They followed the participants over time to assess how their cognitive abilities changed, testing their cognitive function with a screening tool called the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). </p><p>The associations differed by medicine and dose. These comparisons may also reflect differences in patients and why treatment was prescribed, so they should not be read as proof that a particular antidepressant caused deterioration<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#antidepressant-use-cognitive-decline-patients-dementia-national-cohort-study\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 3: Mo, M., Abzhandadze, T., Hoang, M. T., Sacuiu, S., Jurado, P. G., Pereira, J. B., Naia, L., Kele, J., Maioli, S., Xu, H., Eriksdotter, M., &amp; Garcia-Ptacek, S. (2025). Antidepressant use and cognitive decline in patients with dementia: a national cohort study. BMC Medicine, 23(1). Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"3\">[3]</a></sup>.</p><h2 id=\"study-on-anticholinergic-drugs-and-dementia\">Study on Anticholinergic Drugs and Dementia</h2><p>Many over-the-counter and prescription drugs have anticholinergic properties, meaning they block a neurotransmitter known as acetylcholine. These medications are commonly used by older adults, particularly those diagnosed with dementia⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#anticholinergic-medicines-use-among-older-adults-before-after-initiating\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 4: Narayan, S. W., Pearson, S. A., Litchfield, M., Le Couteur, D. G., Buckley, N., McLachlan, A. J., &amp; Zoega, H. (2019). Anticholinergic medicines use among older adults before and after initiating dementia medicines. British journal of clinical pharmacology, 85(9), 1957–1963. Wiley. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"4\">[4]</a></sup>. This includes antidepressants with anticholinergic effects.</p><p>Researchers tracked nearly 3,500 adults aged 65 and older in the Adult Changes in Thought (ACT) study, using pharmacy records to identify the medications they had taken in the 10 years prior to enrollment⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#cumulative-use-strong-anticholinergics-incident-dementia-prospective-cohort-study\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 5: Gray, S. L., Anderson, M. L., Dublin, S., Hanlon, J. T., Hubbard, R., Walker, R., Yu, O., Crane, P. K., &amp; Larson, E. B. (2015). Cumulative use of strong anticholinergics and incident dementia: a prospective cohort study. JAMA internal medicine, 175(3), 401–407. JAMA Network. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"5\">[5]</a></sup>. </p><p>During an average follow-up of about seven years, 797 participants developed dementia. The highest cumulative anticholinergic exposure category was associated with a 54% higher adjusted hazard of dementia compared with nonuse—not with three months of use. This estimate concerns strong anticholinergic medicines as a group and does not prove causation<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#cumulative-use-strong-anticholinergics-incident-dementia-prospective-cohort-study\" data-reference-link=\"\" data-reference-number=\"5\" aria-label=\"Reference 5: Gray, S. L., Anderson, M. L., Dublin, S., Hanlon, J. T., Hubbard, R., Walker, R., Yu, O., Crane, P. K., &amp; Larson, E. B. (2015). Cumulative use of strong anticholinergics and incident dementia: a prospective cohort study. JAMA internal medicine, 175(3), 401–407. JAMA Network. Accessed October 10 2026.\">[5]</a></sup>.</p><p>The following antidepressants are associated with higher anticholinergic effects⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#cumulative-use-strong-anticholinergics-incident-dementia-prospective-cohort-study\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 5: Gray, S. L., Anderson, M. L., Dublin, S., Hanlon, J. T., Hubbard, R., Walker, R., Yu, O., Crane, P. K., &amp; Larson, E. B. (2015). Cumulative use of strong anticholinergics and incident dementia: a prospective cohort study. JAMA internal medicine, 175(3), 401–407. JAMA Network. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"5\">[5]</a></sup>:</p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/amitriptyline-use-doses-side-effects\">Amitriptyline</a></strong>: A tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) medication frequently cited for strong anticholinergic properties</li>\n<li><strong><a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/paroxetine-uses-dosage-side-effects\">Paroxetine</a></strong>: A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) with the highest anticholinergic activity in its class</li>\n<li><strong><a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/doxepin-uses-dosage-side-effects\">Doxepin</a></strong>: A sedating antidepressant with significant anticholinergic effects</li>\n<li><strong>Imipramine</strong>: Another TCA medication that has anticholinergic activity and is linked to memory issues in long-term use</li>\n</ul><section aria-label=\"Subject matter expert\" class=\"article-expert article-expert-inline\" data-expert-kind=\"related\" data-expert-layout=\"standard\"><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Subject matter expert</p><div class=\"article-expert-identity\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/f740e834778e6cf83ef499f0.jpg\" width=\"64\" decoding=\"async\"><h2><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/natalie-staats-reiss\">Natalie Staats Reiss <span class=\"expert-credentials\">Ph.D.</span></a></h2></div><p class=\"article-expert-focus\">Older adults and caregivers</p><a class=\"profile-experience-link experience-button\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/natalie-staats-reiss\">View experience</a></section><h2 id=\"study-on-benzodiazepines-and-dementia\">Study on Benzodiazepines and Dementia</h2><p>Benzodiazepines are a separate class of medicines used for problems such as anxiety and insomnia; they are not antidepressants<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#nimh-mental-health-medications\" data-reference-link=\"\" data-reference-number=\"10\" aria-label=\"Reference 10: National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Mental Health Medications. National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.\">[10]</a></sup>. A 2014 case-control study reported an association between longer benzodiazepine exposure and Alzheimer’s disease, but this design cannot establish cause and effect<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#benzodiazepine-use-risk-alzheimers-disease-case-control-study\" data-reference-link=\"\" data-reference-number=\"6\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: Billioti de Gage, S., Moride, Y., Ducruet, T., Kurth, T., Verdoux, H., Tournier, M., Pariente, A., &amp; Begaud, B. (2014). Benzodiazepine use and risk of Alzheimer’s disease: case-control study. BMJ, 349(sep09 2), g5205–g5205. BMJ. Accessed October 10 2026.\">[6]</a></sup>.</p><p>Researchers relied on a database maintained by the Quebec health insurance program to identify nearly 2,000 men and women over the age of 66 who had already been diagnosed with <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/alzheimers-disease\">Alzheimer’s disease</a>⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#benzodiazepine-use-risk-alzheimers-disease-case-control-study\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: Billioti de Gage, S., Moride, Y., Ducruet, T., Kurth, T., Verdoux, H., Tournier, M., Pariente, A., &amp; Begaud, B. (2014). Benzodiazepine use and risk of Alzheimer’s disease: case-control study. BMJ, 349(sep09 2), g5205–g5205. BMJ. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a></sup>. Next, they randomly selected more than 7,000 others who had not been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, but were matched in terms of age and sex to study participants with the condition⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#benzodiazepine-use-risk-alzheimers-disease-case-control-study\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: Billioti de Gage, S., Moride, Y., Ducruet, T., Kurth, T., Verdoux, H., Tournier, M., Pariente, A., &amp; Begaud, B. (2014). Benzodiazepine use and risk of Alzheimer’s disease: case-control study. BMJ, 349(sep09 2), g5205–g5205. BMJ. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a></sup>. </p><p>The 2014 study reported higher odds of Alzheimer’s disease with longer exposure. Those odds ratios describe comparisons within an observational study, not an individual’s absolute chance of developing dementia<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#benzodiazepine-use-risk-alzheimers-disease-case-control-study\" data-reference-link=\"\" data-reference-number=\"6\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: Billioti de Gage, S., Moride, Y., Ducruet, T., Kurth, T., Verdoux, H., Tournier, M., Pariente, A., &amp; Begaud, B. (2014). Benzodiazepine use and risk of Alzheimer’s disease: case-control study. BMJ, 349(sep09 2), g5205–g5205. BMJ. Accessed October 10 2026.\">[6]</a></sup>.</p><p>People who were prescribed a long-acting benzodiazepine like <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/diazepam-uses-dosage-side-effects\">diazepam (Valium)</a> or <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/flurazepam-dalmane-uses-dosage-side-effects\">flurazepam (Dalmane)</a> were at greater risk than those prescribed a short-acting one like <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/triazolam-halcion-uses-dosage-side-effects\">triazolam (Halcion)</a>, <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/lorazepam-uses-dosage-side-effects\">lorazepam (Ativan)</a>, <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/alprazolam-xanax-uses-dosage-side-effects\">alprazolam (Xanax)</a>, or <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/temazepam-uses-dosage-side-effects\">temazepam (Restoril)</a>⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#benzodiazepine-use-risk-alzheimers-disease-case-control-study\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 6: Billioti de Gage, S., Moride, Y., Ducruet, T., Kurth, T., Verdoux, H., Tournier, M., Pariente, A., &amp; Begaud, B. (2014). Benzodiazepine use and risk of Alzheimer’s disease: case-control study. BMJ, 349(sep09 2), g5205–g5205. BMJ. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"6\">[6]</a></sup>.</p><p>A later prospective study, published in 2016, found no increased dementia risk in its highest-exposure group and did not support a causal association. The differing results are a reason to discuss uncertainty and individual medication risks with a clinician<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#benzodiazepines-dementia-gray-2016\" data-reference-link=\"\" data-reference-number=\"8\" aria-label=\"Reference 8: Gray, S. L., et al. (2016). Benzodiazepine use and risk of incident dementia or cognitive decline: prospective population based study. BMJ, 352, i90. doi:10.1136/bmj.i90. BMJ. Accessed October 10 2026.\">[8]</a></sup>.</p><h2 id=\"recognizing-proven-dementia-risk-factors\">Recognizing Proven Dementia Risk Factors</h2><p>It is still too early to say whether antidepressants may cause dementia. It is still under investigation if certain types of dementia or patients with specific genetic markers respond better or worse to antidepressants. </p><p>Several medical, genetic, and lifestyle factors are known to play a role in the development of dementia, so it’s important not to isolate antidepressants as the sole focus of prevention efforts. </p><p>By having an understanding of the proven <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/dementia\">medical conditions that can cause dementia</a>, patients and healthcare providers can work together to actively reduce or eliminate any modifiable risks while also effectively treating any psychiatric or mood disorders.</p><p>Some proven risk factors of dementia are⁠<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#risk-factors-dementia-factsheet-no\" data-reference-link=\"\" aria-label=\"Reference 7: Alzheimer's Society. (n.d.). Risk factors for dementia. (Factsheet No. 450LP). alzheimers.org.uk. Accessed October 10 2026.\" data-reference-number=\"7\">[7]</a></sup>:</p><ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Age</li>\n<li>Genetics</li>\n<li>Uncontrolled chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity</li>\n<li>One’s amount of “cognitive reserve,” or the brain’s ability to cope with disease</li>\n<li>Exposure to air pollution</li>\n<li>Ethnicity</li>\n<li>Substance abuse or dependency, especially with existing concerns over <a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/alcohol-induced-neurocognitive-disorder\" class=\"article-inline-link\" data-context-link=\"358\">whether alcohol can cause dementia</a></li>\n</ul><h2 id=\"using-antidepressants-with-caution-and-compassion\">Using Antidepressants with Caution and Compassion</h2><p>While some studies suggest a potential link between antidepressants and dementia, the evidence remains inconclusive and is often confounded by other factors. </p><p>These mixed results emphasize the need for more long-term, controlled studies to untangle the potential impact of antidepressants on the brain. Future research will undoubtedly provide more information about the potential impact of medication use and how it relates to dementia risk. </p><p>Depression deserves assessment and treatment in its own right. These studies do not show that taking antidepressants prevents dementia. If memory or medication side effects concern you, ask your prescriber to review your treatment; do not stop a prescribed medicine without their guidance<sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#antidepressant-use-relation-dementia-risk-cognitive-decline-brain-atrophy\" data-reference-link=\"\" data-reference-number=\"2\" aria-label=\"Reference 2: Ilse vom Hofe, Stricker, B. H., Vernooij, M. W., M. Kamran Ikram, M. Arfan Ikram, &amp; Wolters, F. J. (2024). Antidepressant use in relation to dementia risk, cognitive decline, and brain atrophy. Alzheimer’s &amp; Dementia, 20(5). Wiley. Accessed October 10 2026.\">[2]</a></sup><sup class=\"citation-group\"><a class=\"article-citation\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#nimh-mental-health-medications\" data-reference-link=\"\" data-reference-number=\"10\" aria-label=\"Reference 10: National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Mental Health Medications. National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.\">[10]</a></sup>.</p><p>If cognitive concerns arise, exploring options like psychotherapy, medication adjustments, or <a class=\"article-inline-link\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/assessments-diagnosis\">cognitive screenings</a> can offer peace of mind and proactive health planning.</p></article><div class=\"article-endmatter\"><section class=\"article-sources\" data-reference-list=\"\" data-reference-style=\"author-date-title-source\" data-source-references=\"\" id=\"references\"><h2 id=\"references-2\">References</h2><ol><li id=\"antidepressants\" value=\"1\" data-reference-number=\"1\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Cleveland Clinic. (2023, March 1). <em class=\"reference-title\">Antidepressants.</em> Cleveland Clinic; Cleveland Clinic. <a href=\"https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/9301-antidepressants-depression-medication?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-antidepressants-risk-of-dementia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">Cleveland Clinic</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"antidepressant-use-relation-dementia-risk-cognitive-decline-brain-atrophy\" value=\"2\" data-reference-number=\"2\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Ilse vom Hofe, Stricker, B. H., Vernooij, M. W., M. Kamran Ikram, M. Arfan Ikram, &amp; Wolters, F. J. (2024). <em class=\"reference-title\">Antidepressant use in relation to dementia risk, cognitive decline, and brain atrophy.</em> Alzheimer’s &amp; Dementia, 20(5). <a href=\"https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/alz.13807?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-antidepressants-risk-of-dementia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">Wiley</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"antidepressant-use-cognitive-decline-patients-dementia-national-cohort-study\" value=\"3\" data-reference-number=\"3\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Mo, M., Abzhandadze, T., Hoang, M. T., Sacuiu, S., Jurado, P. G., Pereira, J. B., Naia, L., Kele, J., Maioli, S., Xu, H., Eriksdotter, M., &amp; Garcia-Ptacek, S. (2025). <em class=\"reference-title\">Antidepressant use and cognitive decline in patients with dementia: a national cohort study.</em> BMC Medicine, 23(1). <a href=\"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12916-025-03851-3?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-antidepressants-risk-of-dementia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">Springer</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"anticholinergic-medicines-use-among-older-adults-before-after-initiating\" value=\"4\" data-reference-number=\"4\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Narayan, S. W., Pearson, S. A., Litchfield, M., Le Couteur, D. G., Buckley, N., McLachlan, A. J., &amp; Zoega, H. (2019). <em class=\"reference-title\">Anticholinergic medicines use among older adults before and after initiating dementia medicines.</em> British journal of clinical pharmacology, 85(9), 1957–1963. <a href=\"https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bcp.13976?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-antidepressants-risk-of-dementia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">Wiley</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"cumulative-use-strong-anticholinergics-incident-dementia-prospective-cohort-study\" value=\"5\" data-reference-number=\"5\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Gray, S. L., Anderson, M. L., Dublin, S., Hanlon, J. T., Hubbard, R., Walker, R., Yu, O., Crane, P. K., &amp; Larson, E. B. (2015). <em class=\"reference-title\">Cumulative use of strong anticholinergics and incident dementia: a prospective cohort study.</em> JAMA internal medicine, 175(3), 401–407. <a href=\"https://jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?doi=10.1001%2Fjamainternmed.2014.7663&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-antidepressants-risk-of-dementia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">JAMA Network</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"benzodiazepine-use-risk-alzheimers-disease-case-control-study\" value=\"6\" data-reference-number=\"6\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Billioti de Gage, S., Moride, Y., Ducruet, T., Kurth, T., Verdoux, H., Tournier, M., Pariente, A., &amp; Begaud, B. (2014). <em class=\"reference-title\">Benzodiazepine use and risk of Alzheimer’s disease: case-control study.</em> BMJ, 349(sep09 2), g5205–g5205. <a href=\"https://www.bmj.com/content/349/bmj.g5205?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-antidepressants-risk-of-dementia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">BMJ</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"risk-factors-dementia-factsheet-no\" value=\"7\" data-reference-number=\"7\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Alzheimer's Society. (n.d.). <em class=\"reference-title\">Risk factors for dementia.</em> (Factsheet No. 450LP). <a href=\"https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/sites/default/files/pdf/factsheet_risk_factors_for_dementia.pdf?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-antidepressants-risk-of-dementia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">alzheimers.org.uk</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"benzodiazepines-dementia-gray-2016\" value=\"8\" data-reference-number=\"8\" data-reference-format=\"393\">Gray, S. L., et al. (2016). <em class=\"reference-title\">Benzodiazepine use and risk of incident dementia or cognitive decline: prospective population based study.</em> BMJ, 352, i90. doi:10.1136/bmj.i90. <a href=\"https://www.bmj.com/content/352/bmj.i90?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-antidepressants-risk-of-dementia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">BMJ</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"nia-alzheimers-treatment\" value=\"9\" data-reference-number=\"9\" data-reference-format=\"393\">National Institute on Aging. (n.d.). <em class=\"reference-title\">How Is Alzheimer’s Disease Treated?</em> National Institutes of Health. <a href=\"https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-treatment/how-alzheimers-disease-treated?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-antidepressants-risk-of-dementia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">National Institute on Aging</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li><li id=\"nimh-mental-health-medications\" value=\"10\" data-reference-number=\"10\" data-reference-format=\"393\">National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). <em class=\"reference-title\">Mental Health Medications.</em> National Institutes of Health. <a href=\"https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications?utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=libra&amp;utm_content=external_resource&amp;utm_id=site-library-antidepressants-risk-of-dementia&amp;utm_source=mentalhealth.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"reference-source\">National Institute of Mental Health</a>. Accessed October 10 2026.</li></ol></section><section class=\"article-medical article-panel\"><h2 id=\"medical-content\">Medical Content</h2><p><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs\">The Clinical Affairs Team</a> at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the <a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing/editorial-policy\">Editorial Policy</a>.</p></section><section class=\"article-about article-panel\"><h2 id=\"about-mentalhealth-com\">About MentalHealth.com</h2><p>MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.</p><div class=\"article-contributors\"><section class=\"article-bio\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/e9d82387f863009a2622954b.jpg\" width=\"64\" decoding=\"async\"><div><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Author</p><h3 id=\"nikki-seay\"><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/nikki-seay\">Nikki Seay</a></h3><p class=\"article-bio-credentials\">Writer</p><p>Nikki Seay is a professional writer with over a decade of experience in digital health and clinical healthcare. </p><dl><div><dt>Published</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2025-06-06T09:18:24Z\">June 6, 2025</time></dd></div><div><dt>Updated</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2026-10-10T03:00:20Z\">October 9, 2026</time></dd></div></dl></div></section><section class=\"article-bio\"><img alt=\"\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/d298e1ab0221c766e22a9fce.jpg\" width=\"64\" decoding=\"async\"><div><p class=\"article-bio-role\">Medical Reviewer</p><h3 id=\"shivani-kharod-ph-d\"><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/shivani-kharod\">Shivani Kharod, Ph.D.</a></h3><p class=\"article-bio-credentials\">Ph.D.</p><p>Shivani Kharod, Ph.D. is a medical reviewer with over 10 years of experience in delivering scientifically accurate health content.</p><dl><div><dt>Reviewed</dt><dd><time datetime=\"2025-06-06\">June 6, 2025</time></dd></div></dl></div></section></div></section><section aria-label=\"Related community\" class=\"article-topic-community article-topic-community-end\"><img alt=\"\" class=\"topic-community-banner\" height=\"675\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/f5e91a4297495afdb6431ec9.webp\" width=\"1199\" decoding=\"async\"><p class=\"topic-community-label\">Related community</p><h2>Medications</h2><p>Explore questions and perspectives about psychiatric medications and the treatment experience.</p><a href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/community/medications\">Explore community</a></section></div></div><aside aria-label=\"Article navigation and related information\" class=\"article-sidebar\" data-bounded-rail=\"\" tabindex=\"0\"><details class=\"article-contents\" data-expanded=\"false\" data-scrolled-past=\"false\" data-section-preview=\"3\" open=\"\"><summary><strong>Table of contents</strong><span aria-hidden=\"true\"></span><small data-current-section=\"\">Choose a section</small></summary><nav aria-label=\"Article contents\"><ol id=\"article-section-list\"><li><a aria-label=\"The Use of Antidepressants for Dementia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#the-use-of-antidepressants-for-dementia\" title=\"The Use of Antidepressants for Dementia\">The Use of Antidepressants for Dementia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Studies Linking Antidepressants and Dementia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#studies-linking-antidepressants-and-dementia\" title=\"Studies Linking Antidepressants and Dementia\">Studies Linking Antidepressants and Dementia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Study on SSRIs and Dementia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#study-on-ssris-and-dementia\" title=\"Study on SSRIs and Dementia\">Study on SSRIs and Dementia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Study on Anticholinergic Drugs and Dementia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#study-on-anticholinergic-drugs-and-dementia\" title=\"Study on Anticholinergic Drugs and Dementia\">Study on Anticholinergic Drugs and Dementia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Study on Benzodiazepines and Dementia\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#study-on-benzodiazepines-and-dementia\" title=\"Study on Benzodiazepines and Dementia\">Study on Benzodiazepines and Dementia</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Recognizing Proven Dementia Risk Factors\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#recognizing-proven-dementia-risk-factors\" title=\"Recognizing Proven Dementia Risk Factors\">Recognizing Proven Dementia Risk Factors</a></li><li><a aria-label=\"Using Antidepressants with Caution and Compassion\" href=\"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#using-antidepressants-with-caution-and-compassion\" title=\"Using Antidepressants with Caution and Compassion\">Using Antidepressants with Caution and Compassion</a></li></ol><button aria-controls=\"article-section-list\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"article-sections-toggle\" data-sections-toggle=\"\" type=\"button\">View more</button></nav></details></aside></div></div></div>","text":"Home Library Medical Conditions Antidepressants and Dementia Antidepressants and Dementia Written by Nikki SeayMedically reviewed by Shivani Kharod, Ph.D. Published on June 6, 2025 · Updated on October 9, 2026 Dementia is a general term that represents a group of progressive diseases that can affect thinking, memory, personality, mood, and behavior. To help alleviate some of the symptoms of dementia, medical professionals often prescribe antidepressants. With the prevalence of dementia increasing due to an aging global population, evaluating antidepressant safety and efficacy is essential. In particular, one area of concern is the potential link between antidepressant medications and the development of dementia. Key takeaways Antidepressants may help manage depression or anxiety in people with dementia, but their relationship with cognitive decline remains uncertain. Some observational studies link particular medications or longer exposure with greater dementia risk or faster decline without establishing causation. Treatment decisions involve weighing symptom relief against potential harms alongside established medical and lifestyle risk factors. The Use of Antidepressants for Dementia The relationship between antidepressant use and the risk of dementia is complex and isn’t yet fully understood. Healthcare providers commonly prescribe antidepressants to manage the depression, anxiety, and agitation that can accompany dementia. While they don’t cure psychiatric disorders or mood disorders, antidepressants help relieve symptoms by altering the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain (specifically serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine) that affect mood and emotions⁠[1]. Antidepressants include SSRIs, SNRIs, and older classes such as tricyclics and MAOIs. Choosing a medicine requires an individual assessment of benefits, adverse effects, and other treatments[10]. These should not be confused with dementia medicines. Memantine is an NMDA-receptor antagonist used for symptoms of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease; it is not an antidepressant treatment for depression[9]. Since people can often remain on these medications for years or even decades, researchers recognized the need to explore the potential cumulative effects of antidepressants, including cognitive decline and dementia risk⁠[2]. Studies Linking Antidepressants and Dementia Dementia symptoms can worsen cognitive decline and impair quality of life, so proper treatment is important. Antidepressants have been linked to cognitive decline and dementia, but findings have been mixed so far. The studies below examine different questions: developing dementia in the first place and cognitive change after a dementia diagnosis. Most are observational, so differences in depression, underlying illness, and prescribing can complicate interpretation. Associations do not establish that medication caused the outcome[2][3]. Evidence is not uniformly negative. A 2024 population-based study found no consistent association between antidepressant use and long-term dementia risk, accelerated cognitive decline, or brain atrophy. That finding provides important context for studies reporting an association[2]. Study on SSRIs and Dementia Using data from 18,740 patients in the Swedish Dementia Registry, researchers found that people taking antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), experienced a faster rate of cognitive decline than those who did not take these medications⁠[3]. Published in 2025, the study analyzed dementia patients who were newly prescribed antidepressants after their diagnosis⁠[3]. They followed the participants over time to assess how their cognitive abilities changed, testing their cognitive function with a screening tool called the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). The associations differed by medicine and dose. These comparisons may also reflect differences in patients and why treatment was prescribed, so they should not be read as proof that a particular antidepressant caused deterioration[3]. Study on Anticholinergic Drugs and Dementia Many over-the-counter and prescription drugs have anticholinergic properties, meaning they block a neurotransmitter known as acetylcholine. These medications are commonly used by older adults, particularly those diagnosed with dementia⁠[4]. This includes antidepressants with anticholinergic effects. Researchers tracked nearly 3,500 adults aged 65 and older in the Adult Changes in Thought (ACT) study, using pharmacy records to identify the medications they had taken in the 10 years prior to enrollment⁠[5]. During an average follow-up of about seven years, 797 participants developed dementia. The highest cumulative anticholinergic exposure category was associated with a 54% higher adjusted hazard of dementia compared with nonuse—not with three months of use. This estimate concerns strong anticholinergic medicines as a group and does not prove causation[5]. The following antidepressants are associated with higher anticholinergic effects⁠[5]: Amitriptyline: A tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) medication frequently cited for strong anticholinergic properties Paroxetine: A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) with the highest anticholinergic activity in its class Doxepin: A sedating antidepressant with significant anticholinergic effects Imipramine: Another TCA medication that has anticholinergic activity and is linked to memory issues in long-term use Subject matter expert Natalie Staats Reiss Ph.D. Older adults and caregivers View experience Study on Benzodiazepines and Dementia Benzodiazepines are a separate class of medicines used for problems such as anxiety and insomnia; they are not antidepressants[10]. A 2014 case-control study reported an association between longer benzodiazepine exposure and Alzheimer’s disease, but this design cannot establish cause and effect[6]. Researchers relied on a database maintained by the Quebec health insurance program to identify nearly 2,000 men and women over the age of 66 who had already been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease⁠[6]. Next, they randomly selected more than 7,000 others who had not been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, but were matched in terms of age and sex to study participants with the condition⁠[6]. The 2014 study reported higher odds of Alzheimer’s disease with longer exposure. Those odds ratios describe comparisons within an observational study, not an individual’s absolute chance of developing dementia[6]. People who were prescribed a long-acting benzodiazepine like diazepam (Valium) or flurazepam (Dalmane) were at greater risk than those prescribed a short-acting one like triazolam (Halcion), lorazepam (Ativan), alprazolam (Xanax), or temazepam (Restoril)⁠[6]. A later prospective study, published in 2016, found no increased dementia risk in its highest-exposure group and did not support a causal association. The differing results are a reason to discuss uncertainty and individual medication risks with a clinician[8]. Recognizing Proven Dementia Risk Factors It is still too early to say whether antidepressants may cause dementia. It is still under investigation if certain types of dementia or patients with specific genetic markers respond better or worse to antidepressants. Several medical, genetic, and lifestyle factors are known to play a role in the development of dementia, so it’s important not to isolate antidepressants as the sole focus of prevention efforts. By having an understanding of the proven medical conditions that can cause dementia, patients and healthcare providers can work together to actively reduce or eliminate any modifiable risks while also effectively treating any psychiatric or mood disorders. Some proven risk factors of dementia are⁠[7]: Age Genetics Uncontrolled chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity One’s amount of “cognitive reserve,” or the brain’s ability to cope with disease Exposure to air pollution Ethnicity Substance abuse or dependency, especially with existing concerns over whether alcohol can cause dementia Using Antidepressants with Caution and Compassion While some studies suggest a potential link between antidepressants and dementia, the evidence remains inconclusive and is often confounded by other factors. These mixed results emphasize the need for more long-term, controlled studies to untangle the potential impact of antidepressants on the brain. Future research will undoubtedly provide more information about the potential impact of medication use and how it relates to dementia risk. Depression deserves assessment and treatment in its own right. These studies do not show that taking antidepressants prevents dementia. If memory or medication side effects concern you, ask your prescriber to review your treatment; do not stop a prescribed medicine without their guidance[2][10]. If cognitive concerns arise, exploring options like psychotherapy, medication adjustments, or cognitive screenings can offer peace of mind and proactive health planning. References Cleveland Clinic. (2023, March 1). Antidepressants. Cleveland Clinic; Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed October 10 2026. Ilse vom Hofe, Stricker, B. H., Vernooij, M. W., M. Kamran Ikram, M. Arfan Ikram, & Wolters, F. J. (2024). Antidepressant use in relation to dementia risk, cognitive decline, and brain atrophy. Alzheimer’s & Dementia, 20(5). Wiley. Accessed October 10 2026. Mo, M., Abzhandadze, T., Hoang, M. T., Sacuiu, S., Jurado, P. G., Pereira, J. B., Naia, L., Kele, J., Maioli, S., Xu, H., Eriksdotter, M., & Garcia-Ptacek, S. (2025). Antidepressant use and cognitive decline in patients with dementia: a national cohort study. BMC Medicine, 23(1). Springer. Accessed October 10 2026. Narayan, S. W., Pearson, S. A., Litchfield, M., Le Couteur, D. G., Buckley, N., McLachlan, A. J., & Zoega, H. (2019). Anticholinergic medicines use among older adults before and after initiating dementia medicines. British journal of clinical pharmacology, 85(9), 1957–1963. Wiley. Accessed October 10 2026. Gray, S. L., Anderson, M. L., Dublin, S., Hanlon, J. T., Hubbard, R., Walker, R., Yu, O., Crane, P. K., & Larson, E. B. (2015). Cumulative use of strong anticholinergics and incident dementia: a prospective cohort study. JAMA internal medicine, 175(3), 401–407. JAMA Network. Accessed October 10 2026. Billioti de Gage, S., Moride, Y., Ducruet, T., Kurth, T., Verdoux, H., Tournier, M., Pariente, A., & Begaud, B. (2014). Benzodiazepine use and risk of Alzheimer’s disease: case-control study. BMJ, 349(sep09 2), g5205–g5205. BMJ. Accessed October 10 2026. Alzheimer's Society. (n.d.). Risk factors for dementia. (Factsheet No. 450LP). alzheimers.org.uk. Accessed October 10 2026. Gray, S. L., et al. (2016). Benzodiazepine use and risk of incident dementia or cognitive decline: prospective population based study. BMJ, 352, i90. doi:10.1136/bmj.i90. BMJ. Accessed October 10 2026. National Institute on Aging. (n.d.). How Is Alzheimer’s Disease Treated? National Institutes of Health. National Institute on Aging. Accessed October 10 2026. National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Mental Health Medications. National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026. Medical Content The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy. About MentalHealth.com MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life. Author Nikki Seay Writer Nikki Seay is a professional writer with over a decade of experience in digital health and clinical healthcare. Published June 6, 2025 Updated October 9, 2026 Medical Reviewer Shivani Kharod, Ph.D. Ph.D. Shivani Kharod, Ph.D. is a medical reviewer with over 10 years of experience in delivering scientifically accurate health content. Reviewed June 6, 2025 Related community Medications Explore questions and perspectives about psychiatric medications and the treatment experience. Explore community Table of contentsChoose a section The Use of Antidepressants for Dementia Studies Linking Antidepressants and Dementia Study on SSRIs and Dementia Study on Anticholinergic Drugs and Dementia Study on Benzodiazepines and Dementia Recognizing Proven Dementia Risk Factors Using Antidepressants with Caution and Compassion View more","wordCount":1794},"schema":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization","name":"MentalHealth.com","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","publishingPrinciples":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing/editorial-policy"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#website","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","name":"MentalHealth.com","inLanguage":"en-US","publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"}},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Library","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Medical Conditions","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/medical-conditions"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Antidepressants and Dementia","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia"}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#primaryimage","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/3eeba4818741bd28551f3b2d.webp","contentUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/3eeba4818741bd28551f3b2d.webp","width":1200,"height":800,"encodingFormat":"image/webp","caption":"A healthcare professional listens to a woman in a consultation room."},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/nikki-seay#person","name":"Nikki Seay","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/nikki-seay","jobTitle":"Writer","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/e9d82387f863009a2622954b.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkiseay/"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/shivani-kharod#person","name":"Shivani Kharod, Ph.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/shivani-kharod","jobTitle":"Ph.D.","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/d298e1ab0221c766e22a9fce.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivanikharod"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs#department"}]},{"@type":"Article","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#article","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia","headline":"Antidepressants and Dementia","description":"Discover what current research says about antidepressants and their potential link to dementia, including key findings on three medication types.","wordCount":1222,"mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#webpage"},"publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"},"articleSection":"Medical Conditions","citation":[{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Cleveland Clinic. 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Accessed October 10 2026.","links":[{"url":"https://www.bmj.com/content/352/bmj.i90?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-antidepressants-risk-of-dementia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com","label":"BMJ"}],"url":"https://www.bmj.com/content/352/bmj.i90?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=libra&utm_content=external_resource&utm_id=site-library-antidepressants-risk-of-dementia&utm_source=mentalhealth.com"},{"number":9,"id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/antidepressants-risk-of-dementia#nia-alzheimers-treatment","text":"National Institute on Aging. (n.d.). How Is Alzheimer’s Disease Treated? National Institutes of Health. National Institute on Aging. 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