Dr. K’s related written article is here: 7 Common Brain-Slowing Anticholinergic Drugs Older Adults Should Use With Caution t’s essential to know which commonly used medications affect brain function and may worsen your memory. Learn why Benadryl, bladder relaxants, and a variety of other regularly prescribed anticholinergic drugs may impair brain function, exacerbate memory issues, and potentially raise your risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Board-certified geriatrician Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH, explains what all older adults and their families should know about anticholinergic medications, including how to identify them and reduce them when possible.