A recent study suggests that extended use of common medications, widely used by many, could potentially heighten the risk of developing dementia. The research indicated a rise in dementia risk among individuals who had been using an over-the-counter acid reflux medication for 4.5 years or longer.
The study, published in Neurology, does not definitively establish a causal link between cumulative Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) use and dementia but rather hints at an association. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, a chronic upper gastrointestinal condition, involves the persistent backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus, leading to symptoms and complications.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are medications that reduce stomach acid production by inhibiting the “proton pumps” responsible for acid secretion in the stomach lining. These drugs alleviate symptoms like heartburn, indigestion, and acid regurgitation while aiding in the healing of stomach and esophageal damage caused by excess acid. PPIs are commonly prescribed in the UK to manage conditions such as acid reflux and heartburn.
According to the lead author of the study, Dr. Kamakshi Lakshminarayan from the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, long-term use of PPIs has been associated with a higher risk of stroke, bone fractures, and chronic kidney disease. While short-term use of PPIs did not show an increased risk of dementia in the study, prolonged use was linked to a heightened risk of developing dementia.
The analysis involved over 5,700 participants aged 45 and above without prior dementia diagnosis. Participants were categorized based on their PPI usage duration: those who did not use PPIs, individuals using PPIs for up to 2.8 years, those using them for 2.8 to 4.4 years, and those using them for over 4.4 years. Over the study period, approximately 10% of participants developed dementia, with a higher incidence observed among those using PPIs for extended periods.
Researchers found that individuals using PPIs for over 4.5 years were 33% more likely to develop dementia. Dr. Lakshminarayan emphasized the need for further research to confirm these findings and explore the potential link between long-term PPI use and dementia risk. She advised individuals on PPIs to consult with their healthcare provider before altering their medication regimen, as abrupt discontinuation may lead to worsening symptoms.
One limitation of the study was the reliance on annual self-reported medication data, which may have led to underestimating actual PPI usage. Additionally, the study did not account for over-the-counter acid reflux medication usage among participants.
