Neurologists have discovered that a common household drug, which has been previously linked to higher risk of stroke, broken bones and kidney disease, could increase dementia risk
Long-term use of a common acid reflux medication may increase the risk of developing dementia by one-third, according to new research.
The study found that people who used proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for more than 4.4 years were 33% more likely to be diagnosed with the condition. PPIs are widely used to treat acid reflux – a condition where stomach acid flows into the oesophagus, often causing heartburn or ulcers. Frequent acid reflux can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD), a condition that affects up to 40% of the UK population and may increase the risk of oesophageal cancer.
These medications work by targeting enzymes in the stomach lining to reduce acid production. While effective, PPIs have previously been linked to health risks including stroke, bone fractures, and kidney disease.
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The new study, published in the journal Neurology , doesn’t confirm a direct cause-and-effect relationship but does highlight a significant association, reports SurreyLive.
Lead author Professor Kamakshi Lakshminarayan, a vascular neurologist from the University of Minnesota, explained: “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 research involved over 5,700 participants aged 45 and older who were dementia-free at the start of the study. With an average age of 75, participants’ use of PPIs was monitored through in-person study visits and annual phone check-ins.
Of the group, 1,490 (26%) had taken PPIs and were categorised by duration of use: up to 2.8 years, between 2.8 and 4.4 years, and more than 4.4 years. Over an average follow-up of 5.5 years, 585 participants (10%) developed dementia.
Among those who used PPIs for more than 4.4 years, 24 out of every 1,000 person-years developed dementia, compared to 19 per 1,000 person-years in those who never took the drugs. After adjusting for factors like age, sex, race, and health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, the researchers concluded there was a 33% higher risk of dementia in the long-term PPI users.
No increased risk was found for those who took the drugs for less than 4.4 years.
Professor Lakshminarayan emphasised the importance of consulting a doctor before making any changes to treatment. “There are alternative ways to manage acid reflux, including antacids, diet changes, and maintaining a healthy weight,” she said. “But not all approaches work for everyone. Anyone taking these medications should speak with their doctor first, as stopping PPIs suddenly can worsen symptoms.”
More research is needed to better understand the link and the mechanisms behind it, she added.
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