I've been on cogentin/benztropine for a year now for side effects from abilify. is that bad? will it cause any long-lasting anticholinergic effects?

Cogentin: These drugs will only have anticholinergic effects while you are taking them. There is concern that these drugs might increase your risk of dementia, but the data isn't very strong. For anyone with a brain disorder, I recommend eating a healthy, whole foods diet and avoid excessive sugar and highly refined food. These foods can make any brain disorder worse, as I discuss in my book "Brain Drain".

Cogentin: I agree with Dr. Wilson. There was a small increase in risk for dementia with anticholinergic medications per the study. - See: https://www.apdaparkinson.org/article/anti-cholinergic-drugs-a-risk-factor-for-dementia/