What are the Clinical Implications of High ACB Scores?
High ACB scores are associated with a range of negative clinical outcomes, including:
- Cognitive decline: Higher anticholinergic burden is linked to poorer cognitive performance and an increased risk of developing dementia. - Delirium: Patients with high ACB scores are more likely to experience delirium, particularly in acute care settings. - Falls and fractures: Anticholinergic medications can cause side effects like dizziness and sedation, increasing the risk of falls and related injuries. - Mortality: Some studies suggest that high anticholinergic burden may be associated with increased mortality, particularly in older adults.
