Charlie Sheen, 57, renowned for his extravagant lifestyle and the controversies that accompanied it, is confronting what he describes as "borderline dementia," a condition he attributes to the potent medication he takes to manage his HIV infection.
The infamous star of Two and a Half Men has been confiding in friends about his experiences with mood fluctuations, memory impairment, and difficulties in completing basic tasks — issues he associates with his HIV medication. "The drugs have kept the virus under control, keeping me alive, but I've been dealing with perpetual migraines and periods of what feels like borderline dementia," says Sheen.
Sheen, who once held the record as television's highest-paid actor, has recently switched to a new experimental drug, PRO 140, which has improved his health. However, according to Dr. Stuart Fischer, a New York-based internist who gave an independent opinion, Sheen's troubles may extend beyond the side effects of his medication.
Fischer suggests that "the dementia-like symptoms may not be exclusively linked to his medications. The years of substance misuse, hazardous sexual practices, and heavy alcohol consumption should not be overlooked."
Sheen, whose professional reputation suffered a severe blow after confessing to having unprotected sex while knowing he was HIV-positive, has also previously sought treatment for crack cocaine addiction.
Fischer posits, "He has inflicted a significant amount of damage upon himself. We can only hope that his brain function can be regenerated. However, it might be too late to avert potential lasting consequences given his history of self-destruction."
Despite his challenging circumstances, sources intimate that Sheen remains resolute in his commitment to making amends with those affected by his past actions. His list includes his daughters - Sami, 19, and Lola, 18, with actress Denise Richards, 51, and Cassandra, 38, with former high school love Paula Profit.
An insider shared, "Charlie recognizes the hurt his past behavior has caused, not just to himself, but to others. He is earnestly hoping his healthcare regimen and lifestyle modifications will afford him the opportunity to reconcile."
Fischer cautions, however, that there can be no certainties, regardless of Sheen's good intentions. He advises, "Charlie's journey should serve as a stark reminder of the potential for personal destruction when indulging in reckless behavior. The damages could be irreversible, impacting both mind and body."