Can Ditching Acid Reflux Medicines Lower Dementia Risk?

A recent study has revealed that individuals who utilize a common variety of medication for acid reflux for a period exceeding four years confront an elevated risk of developing dementia later in life. The research focused on individuals who were prescribed proton pump inhibitors for addressing frequent occurrences of acid reflux, stomach ulcers, or other problems related to the digestive tract.

The study, published in the medical journal "Neurology," observed that those who used these medications for more than 4.4 years had a 33% higher probability of experiencing dementia compared to those who did not employ the medication (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Long-term Use of Certain Acid Reflux Drugs Linked to Higher Risk of Dementia

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Examining Acid Reflux Medication's Impact on Dementia: Study Findings

Acid reflux, which involves stomach acid escaping and reaching the esophagus, can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease, potentially causing esophageal damage and heightening the risk of cancer. Proton pump inhibitors function by targeting enzymes responsible for stomach acid production, thereby reducing acid levels.

This study adds to a growing body of research associating these drugs, used by millions of Americans, with various conditions like heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Prior investigations yielded mixed results regarding the link between proton pump inhibitors and dementia, with comprehensive reviews of independent studies revealing no significant connection to dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Balancing Benefits and Risks: Acid Reflux Medication and Long-Term Use

Though the authors of the NIH-funded "Neurology" study stop short of confirming a causative relationship between these medications and dementia, they do indicate that prolonged use of such drugs could potentially pose a risk for dementia. Dementia affects about one-third of adults aged 85 and above.

To mitigate these potential risks, individuals are encouraged to engage in discussions with their healthcare providers, disclosing all medications, including over-the-counter ones. This enables healthcare professionals to review the medications and discuss their rationale with patients.

The study included over 5,700 participants without dementia at the study's commencement, tracking them for approximately 5.5 years with an average age of 75. Researchers categorized participants based on the duration of medication use, and those who employed these drugs for at least 4.4 years demonstrated the highest dementia rates.

The study accounted for factors such as age, gender, race, and underlying chronic conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes. Ultimately, those who took the medication for 4.4 years or more exhibited a 33% increased risk of dementia compared to non-users. The study's evaluation of dementia risk over a prolonged medication use period provides valuable insights compared to past studies that relied on single instances of medication use and billing data for dementia diagnoses.

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However, the study design does not encompass certain influencing factors like vitamin B12 deficiency, socioeconomic status, depression, or the presence of H. pylori, a stomach-infecting bacteria. Furthermore, it is challenging to ascertain whether patients took the acid-reflux medications sporadically, for short durations, or over the long term.

The American Gastroenterological Association updated its guidelines for doctors on acid-reflux prescriptions, suggesting the lowest effective dosage for individuals with severe reflux esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, and peptic ulcers. They also recommend dietary adjustments to avoid trigger foods, refraining from eating close to bedtime, elevating the head during sleep, and weight management.

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While proton pump inhibitors are generally well-tolerated and effective for acid-related conditions, there is an acknowledgment that they might be overprescribed. Patients are often advised to weigh the pros and cons of any medical treatment, considering potential risks and benefits.

Reference:

1. Long-term Use of Certain Acid Reflux Drugs Linked to Higher Risk of Dementia - (https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/Home/PressRelease/5107)

Source-Medindia