What are some commonly used drugs with anticholinergic side effects?

Altered mental status secondary to polypharmacy is common. Drugs with anticholinergic side effects are often contributory ... here's a list of some common ones:

  • antihistamines ie diphenhydramine, hydroxyzine, meclizine, promethazine (Phenergan)

  • neuroleptics ie olanzapine (Zyprexa), quetiapine (Seroquel)

  • antiparkinsonian drugs - benztropine (Cogentin)

  • tricyclic antidepressants

  • antispasmodics ie dicyclomine (bentyl), oxybutynin (Ditropan),

  • sleep aids ie doxylamine (Unisom)

  • cold preparations

  • scopolamine

  • atropine


Su, Mark MD and Goldman, Matthew MD. "Anticholinergic poisoning." Up to Date. 12 June 2008.