A new study found that long-term usage of acid reflux drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may increase the risk of dementia. 

Extended Use of Acid Reflux Drugs Raises Dementia Risk

The study addresses the concerns surrounding the extended use of PPIs, which are commonly employed to mitigate acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid enters the esophagus, often after meals or when lying down, leading to conditions such as heartburn and ulcers. 

In more severe cases, frequent acid reflux can result in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and potentially increase the risk of esophageal cancer. However, it's important to note that this study only establishes an association and does not definitively establish a causal relationship.

PPI, the medications under scrutiny, function by targeting stomach lining enzymes responsible for acid production, thereby reducing stomach acid levels.

The research, conducted by the University of Minnesota School of Public Health in Minneapolis and led by study author Kamakshi Lakshminarayan, MBBS, PhD, explored the potential correlation between long-term PPI usage and the risk of dementia.  

While these medications are widely recognized as useful tools to manage acid reflux, previous studies have raised concerns about their association with a higher likelihood of stroke, bone fractures, and chronic kidney disease. Therefore, the team's investigation aims to explore their potential link to dementia.

The study encompassed 5,712 participants aged 45 and above who were dementia-free at the study's commencement, with an average age of 75. Researchers assessed PPI usage by reviewing participants' medication histories during study visits and annual phone calls. 

Of the participants, 26% (1,490 individuals) had used PPIs. The participants were divided into four groups based on their PPI usage duration: those who didn't use PPIs, those who used them for up to 2.8 years, those who used them for 2.8 to 4.4 years, and those who used them for over 4.4 years.

Over the subsequent median period of 5.5 years, 10% of participants (585 individuals) developed dementia. Adjusting for factors like age, sex, race, blood pressure, and diabetes, researchers found that those using PPIs for more than 4.4 years faced a 33% elevated risk of developing dementia compared to those who had not used the drugs. 

It's important to emphasize that the study does not indicate an increased dementia risk for individuals who used PPIs for less than 4.4 years.

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More Research Needed

Kamakshi Lakshminarayan urged further investigation to substantiate the findings and delve into the possible connection between long-term PPI use and dementia risk.

"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," Lakshminarayan said in a statement.

"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," she added.

However, the team noted a limitation of the study lies in its annual assessment of medication usage, which could lead to inaccuracies in estimating use between check-ins. 

Moreover, the study could not assess over-the-counter PPI usage among participants. The study's findings were published in the journal Neurology. 

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