All nonprescription and many prescription antihistamines have potent anticholinergic effects. The drugs include chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine, hydroxyzine, cyproheptadine, promethazine, tripelennamine, dexchlorpheniramine, and combination cold remedies. Although sometimes helpful for allergic reactions and seasonal allergies, antihistamines are generally not appropriate for a runny nose and other symptoms of a viral infection. Cough and cold remedies that don't include anti-histamines are generally safer for the elderly. Antihypertensives Methyldopa, alone or in combination with other drugs, may slow the heartbeat and worsen depression.
Reserpine is risky, as it can induce depression, impotence, sedation, and dizziness upon standing.
These drugs are often toxic, producing sedation, movement disorders, and anticholinergic side effects. Elderly people should use antipsychotics in small doses, if at all. The need for treatment should be reassessed often, and the drugs should be discontinued as soon as possible. Gastrointestinal antispasmodics Gastrointestinal antispasmodics, such as dicyclomine, hyoscyamine, propantheline, belladonna alkaloids, and clidinium-chlordiazepoxide, are given to treat stomach cramps and pain. Because chlorpropamide causes the body to retain water, it can also lower the level of sodium in the blood.