A frequently prescribed medication might be associated with an increased risk of dementia, as indicated by researchers examining the long-term impacts of proton pump inhibitors, commonly referred to as PPIs.
These medications – such as Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, and Pantoprazole – are often prescribed to alleviate acid reflux and heartburn. Physicians generally suggest taking PPIs once daily for a short duration. However, prolonged use has been linked to an expanding array of potential side effects, including a possible heightened risk of dementia.
A study conducted in 2023 revealed that individuals who used PPIs for an extended time were 33 percent more likely to develop dementia, as reported by LadBible. American researchers evaluated data from 5,712 adults aged 45 to 64 who were dementia-free at the study’s outset. Nearly 1,500 participants, or about 26 percent, were using PPIs.
Side effects of Omeprazole
After considering variables such as age, race, gender, and pre-existing health issues, researchers identified a trend among long-term users of these medications. Out of the 497 individuals who had been on PPIs for approximately four and a half years, 58 subsequently developed dementia.
“This study does not establish that acid reflux medications cause dementia,” stated neurologist Dr. Kamakshi Lakshminarayan, according to LadBible. “It merely indicates a correlation.
“Further research is essential to validate our results in larger study populations and to comprehend the potential relationship between prolonged proton pump inhibitor use and an increased risk of dementia.
“While we did not observe a connection with short-term use, we did identify a greater risk of dementia linked to the long-term use of these medications.”
Researchers have also investigated possible reasons for this association.
“Some research indicates that the use of acid reflux medications might be linked to low B12 levels,” Dr. Lakshminarayan noted. “And low B12 can lead to difficulties in thinking and memory issues.”
However, she mentioned that she “could not provide insight on this theory” since B12 levels were not assessed among the study participants.
“These drugs may increase amyloid in the brain”
Dr. Gregory Day, an associate professor in the Neurology Department at the Mayo Clinic, stated that the theory remains plausible.
He reportedly informed CBS News that PPIs could “affect the brain’s enzymes” that manage amyloid – a protein closely associated with the brain damage observed in Alzheimer’s disease.
According to him, these medications might “reduce the level of the body’s chemical that is meant to eliminate amyloid in specific ways.”
“In theory, these medications elevate amyloid levels in the brain, heightening the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, which is the leading cause of dementia,” he explained.
Despite these findings, experts emphasize that patients should not abruptly discontinue their prescribed medications without consulting a doctor first.
“While there are various methods to manage acid reflux, such as using antacids, keeping a healthy weight, and avoiding late meals and certain foods, different strategies may not be effective for everyone,” Dr. Lakshminarayan advised.
“It is crucial for individuals on these medications to talk to their doctor before making any changes, to determine the best treatment for their situation, and because stopping these drugs suddenly could lead to more severe symptoms.”
