Long-Term Use of Acid Reflux Medications May Increase Risk of Dementia, Study Finds
A new study suggests that people who take acid reflux medications called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for an extended period may have a higher risk of developing dementia. The research, published in the medical journal Neurology®, does not prove that these drugs directly cause dementia but rather shows an association between long-term PPI use and an increased risk.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, commonly causing heartburn and ulcers. Chronic acid reflux can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition that has been linked to esophageal cancer. Proton pump inhibitors work by reducing stomach acid production.
Previous studies have already linked long-term PPI use to a higher risk of stroke, bone fractures, and chronic kidney disease. However, this new study sought to investigate whether there was a connection between PPI use and dementia.
The study involved 5,712 participants aged 45 and older who did not have dementia at the start of the research. Their average age was 75. Researchers assessed participants’ PPI use by reviewing their medications during study visits and phone calls over a median duration of 5.5 years. Of the participants, 26% had taken PPIs.
The participants were divided into four groups based on their PPI usage: those who did not take the drugs, those who took them for up to 2.8 years, those who took them for 2.8 to 4.4 years, and those who took them for more than 4.4 years. During the study period, 10% of participants developed dementia.
After adjusting for factors such as age, sex, race, and health-related conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, the researchers found that those who had taken PPIs for more than 4.4 years had a 33% higher risk of developing dementia compared to those who never took the medications. However, no increased risk of dementia was observed in individuals who used PPIs for a shorter duration.
The lead author of the study, Kamakshi Lakshminarayan, MBBS, PhD, emphasized the need for further research to confirm these findings and investigate why long-term PPI use might be linked to a higher dementia risk. Lakshminarayan also advised individuals currently taking these drugs to consult with their doctors before making any changes to their treatment plan, as abruptly stopping PPI use may result in worsening symptoms.
It is important to note that this study had some limitations. Participants were surveyed about their medication use only once a year, so estimations were made regarding PPI usage between check-ins. Additionally, over-the-counter PPI use was not assessed.
While this study suggests a potential association between long-term PPI use and dementia risk, it does not establish a cause-and-effect relationship. Further research is required to gain a comprehensive understanding of this connection.
The study received support from the National Institutes of Health, including the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
In conclusion, individuals who take acid reflux medications known as proton pump inhibitors for an extended period may face a higher risk of dementia. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms. It is crucial for individuals to consult with their healthcare providers before making any changes to their medication regimen.
