25-04-2025
Irish people warned common drug increases dementia risk by a third
A new study suggests that prolonged use of a common acid reflux drug could heighten the risk of dementia by a third.
Researchers discovered that individuals taking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for over 4.4 years had a 33% increased chance of being diagnosed with dementia. PPIs are frequently prescribed to treat acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acid backs up into the oesophagus, often leading to heartburn or ulcers.
Persistent acid reflux can evolve into gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD), affecting up to 20% of people in Ireland and potentially raising the risk of oesophageal cancer.
These drugs aim to suppress acid production by acting on stomach lining enzymes. Despite their effectiveness, PPIs have been previously associated with various health issues, including strokes, bone fractures, and kidney disease.
Published in the journal Neurology, the study does not establish a direct causal link but points out a strong correlation, as reported by SurreyLive, reports the Mirror.
The study's lead author, Professor Kamakshi Lakshminarayan from the University of Minnesota, stated: "Proton pump inhibitors are useful for managing acid reflux, but long-term use has been tied to several health concerns. In this study, we wanted to explore whether they could also be linked to dementia."
The study spanned over 5,700 participants aged 45 and above, all dementia-free at inception. With a mean age of 75, the usage of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) by these individuals was tracked through both in-person sessions and yearly telephonic updates.
Out of the cohort, 1,490 participants (26%) were PPI users, grouped by usage duration: up to 2.8 years, between 2.8 and 4.4 years, and beyond 4.4 years. Throughout the 5.5-year average tracking period, dementia developed in 585 of the participants (10%).
For those on PPIs past the 4.4-year mark, dementia appeared in 24 out of every 1,000 person-years, versus 19 per 1,000 for non-users. Even when accounting for variables such as age, gender, ethnicity, and underlying conditions like hypertension and diabetes, researchers found a 33% uptick in dementia risk among long-term PPI consumers.
However, this heightened risk did not present for shorter-term users under the 4.4-year threshold.
Professor Lakshminarayan stressed the necessity of professional medical advice before altering any treatment regimen. "There are alternative ways to manage acid reflux, including antacids, diet changes, and maintaining a healthy weight," she outlined.
"But not all approaches work for everyone. Anyone taking these medications should speak with their doctor first, as stopping PPIs suddenly can worsen symptoms."
She further noted the need for additional studies to elucidate the connection and its underlying mechanisms.
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