Can dementia medications like donepezil affect REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) symptoms?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Dementia medications like donepezil might affect REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) symptoms, but the impact can vary depending on the individual and the specific condition.

Questions about dementia meds affecting RBD?

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Explanation

Donepezil is a medication often used to treat symptoms of dementia, including in conditions like Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. According to the provided references, the effects of donepezil on REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) can vary. In some cases, medications for dementia may influence sleep patterns, including REM sleep, which is the stage of sleep where RBD typically occurs.

Reference 1 suggests that neuropsychiatric symptoms in Parkinson's disease, which can include sleep disturbances like RBD, might be influenced by medications used for dementia.
Reference 2 discusses the management of dementia with Lewy bodies, where sleep disturbances are common, and medications like donepezil are used.

The overall impact of donepezil on RBD symptoms can depend on several factors, including the underlying condition being treated and individual patient differences. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health concerns, consider visiting 988lifeline.org for support.

(References)

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