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Medication taken by 1 in 8 Americans linked to substantial increase in the risk of sudden cardiac death

The article from MSN discusses a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, which found that a common class of medications known as anticholinergic drugs, used by approximately one in eight Americans for conditions like overactive bladder, Parkinson's disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), significantly increases the risk of sudden cardiac death. These drugs, which include medications like oxybutynin and tolterodine, block the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, leading to side effects like dry mouth, constipation, and cognitive issues. The study highlighted that the risk of sudden cardiac death was particularly elevated in the first 30 days of use, with a 60% increased risk for those on higher doses. The research underscores the need for careful consideration and possibly alternative treatments for patients with cardiovascular risk factors, suggesting that doctors should weigh the benefits against these newly identified risks when prescribing these medications.

Read the Full Fortune Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/mindandbody/medication-taken-by-1-in-8-americans-linked-to-substantial-increase-in-the-risk-of-sudden-cardiac-death/ar-AA1BWXOS ]