anticholinergic burden
Cumulative effect of medications that block acetylcholine receptors, potentially causing cognitive and physical side effects.
Full Definition
Anticholinergic burden refers to the cumulative effect of taking multiple medications that block muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, which can lead to significant side effects including dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, blurred vision, and cognitive impairment. In psychiatry, many medications have anticholinergic properties, including tricyclic antidepressants, some antipsychotics, and antihistamines. High anticholinergic burden is particularly concerning in elderly patients and those with dementia, as it can worsen cognitive function and increase risk of falls, delirium, and other complications. Various scales exist to quantify anticholinergic burden and guide medication optimization.
Usage
Usage note: Quantify when possible using established scales; particularly important in elderly and cognitively impaired patients.
In Context
- "The medication review revealed a high anticholinergic burden contributing to the patient's confusion and falls." — Geriatric consultation note
- "Reducing anticholinergic burden by switching from amitriptyline to sertraline improved the patient's cognitive clarity." — Medication optimization summary