Benzodiazepines

Clinicians from the American College of Osteopathic Neurologists and Psychiatrists have issued a statement saying that benzodiazepines are ineffective in treating anxiety disorders and may increase the risk for dementia and death. Benzodiazepines include drugs such as Ativan, Klonopin, and Xanax. A Canadian review of 9,000 patients around that taking a benzodiazepine for less than 3 months conferred the same risk on developing Alzheimer's as those never having taken the drug. However being on the drug for 3-6 months increased the risk of developing Alzheimer's by 32%, and for more than 6 months by 84%. Taking benzodiazepines when older than 65 is especially risky. 

To read more: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/10/151005132615.htm