Over-the-counter drugs, many of them formerly only available by prescription, are in abundance, and they supposedly treat a wide range of conditions and minor illnesses. But new research shows that many of these come with a host of side effects and potential side effects that ought to make you seriously look for natural alternatives.

As reported by CNN, a new study published just recently provides scientists with the most definitive proof yet of what they've known for at least the past 10 years – that anticholinergic medications are tied to cognitive impairment and a heightened risk of developing dementia.

While many people may never have heard of this class of drugs, most certainly know of many of the drugs that fit into it: Benadryl, Demerol, Dramamine, Paxil, Dimetapp, VESIcare and Unisom, to name some of them. These are sold all over the country (and some are still included in prescription medications as well), and are designed as sleep aids, as well as to treat chronic ailments like hypertension, cardiovascular disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).