What adverse effect may be particularly concerning for geriatric patients taking anticholinergics?

In geriatric patients, the use of anticholinergic agents raises significant concerns regarding memory impairment and confusion. Anticholinergics work by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in various functions, including memory and cognitive processing. As people age, they may already have a reduced cholinergic function, and the introduction of anticholinergic medications can exacerbate cognitive decline, leading to increased confusion and impairment in memory.

This is particularly critical for elderly individuals who might be more susceptible to the central nervous system effects of these drugs due to factors like polypharmacy, age-related changes in drug metabolism, and existing cognitive deficits. Recognizing this risk is essential when prescribing medication to older adults and highlights the need for careful consideration and monitoring of anticholinergic use in this population.