Drugs That Cause Amnesia

We can all be a little forgetful at times. But amnesia is the loss of ability to recall information or memories. Amnesia is most often caused by trauma or damage to the brain. Infections, drug abuse, stroke, and malnutrition are other culprits. Certain drugs can also be blamed.

Benzodiazepines

• Benzodiazepines, (valium and mogadon) can cause temporary amnesia. These drugs are frequently used to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizures, muscle spasms and withdrawal from alcohol.

Erectile Dysfunction Drugs

• Erectile dysfunction drugs such as Cialis, Levitra, and Viagra may cause amnesia. Labels will list "transient global amnesia" as a possible side effect.

Statin Drugs

• Statin drugs may be responsible for amnesia. Statins are used to treat high cholesterol and include names such as Lipitor, Levacor, Pravachol and Crestor.

Drug Interactions

• Certain drugs and substances may interact to cause amnesia. Even vitamins, herbs and over-the-counter medications may react with prescriptions. Some examples include: Prilosec and Atican and Prilosec and Halicon.

Alcohol

• Alcohol is a drug and can cause amnesia. Alcohol dulls the senses and impairs judgment and memory. People who become intoxicated may have trouble remembering what they did while in that state.

Recovery

• Most drug interactions that cause memory loss are temporary. Don't forget to discuss with your doctor any supplements, vitamins, alternative herbal doses or prescriptions you are taking.