What Are The Side Effects Of Anxiety Medication?

Issues With Memory Or Concentration

Anti-anxiety medications can cause problems with memory or concentration similar to problems with confusion. They may slow down a patient's cognitive function and make it hard to focus on a task or remember what they're doing. Patients might feel like it takes a lot more time to get things done than it usually does. There might also be some impairment of an individual's executive functioning, which is the ability to prioritize and execute tasks. In older patients, these symptoms can become more serious. It's highly recommended for elderly patients to avoid taking medications that can impair their concentration and memory. If they do, they should monitor the effects closely with their doctor. Problems with concentration and memory can sometimes be mitigated by making lifestyle changes and learning coping strategies. There are ways to 'trick' the brain into focusing or to complete tasks without expending too much mental energy.