A recent study suggests a potential link between long-term use of heartburn medicines for acid reflux and an increased risk of dementia. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows into the oesophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn and ulcers. If left untreated, it can progress to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and potentially increase the risk of cancer. Proton pump inhibitors, a class of drugs that target stomach acid production, are commonly prescribed to manage acid reflux. However, previous research has associated their long-term use with an elevated risk of stroke, bone fractures, and chronic kidney disease.
The research, published in the journal Neurology, involved a study conducted by the University of Minnesota School of Public Health in the US. The study assessed over 5,712 participants aged 45 and older who did not have dementia at the beginning of the study. Researchers reviewed the participants’ medication history during study visits and annual phone calls to determine the use of acid reflux drugs.
The findings revealed that long-term use of these drugs was associated with a higher risk of dementia. Among the 5,700+ participants, 26% had taken acid reflux drugs. Based on the duration of drug use, the participants were divided into four groups. Over an average follow-up period of approximately 5.5 years, 10% of the participants developed dementia.
After adjusting for various factors, including age, sex, race, high blood pressure, and diabetes, the researchers discovered that individuals who had taken acid reflux drugs for more than 4.4 years had a 33% higher risk of developing dementia compared to those who had never taken the drugs. However, there was no increased risk of dementia among those who took the drugs for less than 4.4 years.
It’s important to note that these findings do not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between acid reflux drugs and dementia. The study only demonstrates a correlation. The lead author of the study, Dr. Kamakshi Lakshminarayan, advises individuals currently taking these medications to consult with their doctors before making any changes. Abruptly stopping the drugs may worsen symptoms, so it’s crucial to discuss the best treatment options with a healthcare professional.
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