Long-term usage of a specific type of acid reflux medication has been linked to a 33% increase in the risk of dementia, as per recent research findings. Individuals who have been taking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for over four-and-a-half years are more likely to develop this cognitive condition, according to scientists.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid moves into the esophagus, typically after meals or while lying down. Symptoms of acid reflux can include heartburn and ulcers, and persistent acid reflux may progress to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD), which can elevate the risk of esophageal cancer.
GORD is a prevalent issue, affecting up to 40% of the UK population with regular heartburn. PPIs work by reducing stomach acid levels through targeting the enzymes responsible for its production in the stomach lining.
Although PPIs are beneficial in managing acid reflux, prior studies have associated their long-term use with increased risks of stroke, bone fractures, and kidney disease. The recent study by American researchers, published in Neurology, suggests an association between acid reflux medications and dementia without proving causation.
Lead researcher Professor Kamakshi Lakshminarayan, a vascular neurologist, emphasized the importance of monitoring long-term PPI use due to its potential risks. The study encompassed over 5,700 individuals aged 45 and above without dementia at the study’s commencement, with an average age of 75. Participants’ medication history was tracked through study visits and annual phone calls to establish PPI usage.
Among the participants, 26% had taken acid reflux medications, categorizing them into four groups based on duration: non-users, short-term users up to 2.8 years, medium-term users between 2.8 and 4.4 years, and long-term users surpassing 4.4 years. Over an average follow-up period of about 5.5 years, 10% of the participants developed dementia.
After adjusting for variables like age, gender, race, and health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, researchers determined that individuals using acid reflux drugs for more than 4.4 years faced a 33% heightened risk of dementia compared to non-users. Shorter-term users did not exhibit the same increased risk.
Professor Lakshminarayan stressed the need for further research to validate the findings and delve into the potential link between prolonged PPI use and dementia risk. She recommended individuals on these medications to consult their healthcare provider before altering their treatment regimen, as abrupt discontinuation may lead to exacerbated symptoms.
