The effects of anticholinergic drugs on attention span and short-term memory skills in children
Karla M Giramonti1, Barry A Kogan, Leslie F Halpern
1Division of Urology, The Urological Institute of Northeastern New York, Albany, New York 12208, USA. kgiramonti@communitycare.com
Insights
Long-acting oxybutynin and tolterodine did not negatively impact short-term memory or attention in children with incontinence. Study results showed no significant adverse cognitive effects from these anticholinergic medications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Urology
- Neuropharmacology
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Anticholinergic medications like oxybutynin and tolterodine are used for treating urinary incontinence.
- Cognitive side effects are a concern in adults using anticholinergics.
- The impact of these drugs on cognitive function in children is not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of long-acting oxybutynin and tolterodine on short-term memory and attention in children.
- To determine if pediatric patients are susceptible to anticholinergic-induced cognitive deficits.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled crossover trial.
- Participants: Children (5-11 years) with urgency/urge incontinence.
- Assessment: Standardized neuropsychological tests for memory and attention, administered at baseline and after two 2-week treatment periods.
Main Results:
- Fourteen children completed the study.
- Attention and memory scores generally improved over time across all participants.
- No statistically significant negative effects of oxybutynin or tolterodine on attention or memory were observed.
Conclusions:
- Long-acting oxybutynin and tolterodine appear safe regarding short-term memory and attention in children with incontinence.
- Further research is needed to explore potential effects on other cognitive domains.
Aims:
Studies have shown cognitive problems in adults treated with anticholinergics. It is unclear if children are also susceptible to anticholinergic adverse effects. This study evaluates the effects of long-acting oxybutynin and tolterodine on short-term memory and attention in children with urgency and urge incontinence.
Methods:
Children with urgency or urge incontinence were recruited to take part in a prospective, randomized double-blinded placebo controlled trial using long-acting oxybutynin or tolterodine. Patients underwent a baseline test of their memory/recall ability and attention span using a standardized developmental/neuropsychological assessment tool. They were then randomized to either medication or placebo with retesting in 2 weeks, at which time they were crossed. They were retested after the second 2 weeks.
Results:
Fourteen children (9 boys and 5 girls), ranging in age from 5 to 11 (M = 7.7) participated in the study. Attention and memory scores increased over time in all children, however, the analyses showed no significant negative effects of anticholinergic medications on attention or memory. Indeed, though not statistically significant, trends were for improvement in test scores in both areas.
Conclusions:
Our results in a double blinded cross-over trial suggest that long-acting oxybutynin and tolterodine do not have a deleterious effect on children's attention and memory. Other cognitive functions may be affected.
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