10 August 2023 , 21:06
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Long-term use of popular acid reflux drugs could lead to a higher risk of dementia, a study has shown. A new study published in the journal of the American Academy of Neurology suggests that long-term use of popular acid reflux drugs, known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as Prilosec, Nexium, and Prevacid, is associated with a higher risk of dementia.
PPIs are commonly used to treat frequent acid reflux, stomach ulcers, and other digestive issues by reducing stomach acid production. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid irritates the oesophagus, leading to discomfort and potential health issues.
While short-term use of PPIs did not show a significant link to dementia, the study found that individuals who had used these drugs for over 4.4 years had a 33% higher risk of dementia compared to those who had never taken them.
Use exceeding 4.4 years was linked to 33% higher dementia riskThe study, conducted by researchers from the University of Minnesota and supported by the National Institutes of Health, investigated the potential link between long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) - commonly prescribed for acid reflux - and the risk of dementia.
Study author Kamakshi Lakshminarayan, a researcher at the University of Minnesota and member of the American Academy of Neurology said: "Proton pump inhibitors are a useful tool to help control acid reflux; however, long-term use has been linked in previous studies to a higher risk of stroke, bone fractures and chronic kidney disease.
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Adjusted for factors like age, sex, race, the study found no dementia risk in short-term PPI users"Some people take these drugs regularly, so we examined if they are linked to a higher risk of dementia. While we did not find a link with short-term use, we did find a higher risk of dementia associated with long-term use of these drugs."
The study involved 5,712 participants aged 45 and older, who were divided into groups based on their duration of PPI use: up to 2.8 years, 2.8 to 4.4 years, over 4.4 years, or no PPI use.
The participants were followed for approximately five and a half years, with adjustments made for various factors including age, sex, race, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
Study recommends consulting doctors before changing PPI use due to symptom concernsThe study found that individuals who had used PPIs for over 4.4 years had a 33% higher risk of dementia compared to those who had never taken the drugs, while shorter-term use did not show a significant link to dementia.
However, there were some limitations, such as potential variations in PPI use during the study period, and the researchers emphasised the importance of consulting a doctor before making changes to PPI usage due to the potential worsening of symptoms upon abrupt discontinuation.
Short-term use of PPIs did not show a significant link to dementia (Getty Images/Science Photo Library RF)The researchers advise acid reflux patients to consult their doctors before making any changes to their medication regimen, as abruptly stopping PPIs could worsen symptoms.
Dr Lakshminarayan warned: "While there are various ways to treat acid reflux, such as taking antacids, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding late meals and certain foods, different approaches may not work for everyone.
"It is important that people taking these medications speak with their doctor before making any changes, to discuss the best treatment for them, and because stopping these drugs abruptly may result in worse symptoms."