A new study found that people who took common types of acid reflux medications for more than four years had an increased risk of developing dementia later in life.
The study looked at people prescribed proton pump inhibitors for frequent acid reflux, stomach ulcers, and other gastrointestinal problems. A study published in the journal Neurology found that people who took the drug for more than 4.4 years were 33% more likely to develop dementia than those who didn’t take it.
Over-the-counter versions of proton pump inhibitors include those sold under the brand names Prilosec, Nexium, and Prevacid.
Acid reflux occurs when acid flows out of the stomach and into the esophagus, often after eating or at bedtime. A common condition can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease, which can damage the esophagus and increase the risk of cancer. Proton pump inhibitors reduce stomach acid by targeting acid-producing enzymes in the stomach lining.
The study is the latest to link these classes of drugs, used by millions of Americans, with a growing list of diseases such as stroke, heart disease and kidney disease.
Previous studies have reported mixed results on its association with dementia. Two strong reviews, both examining a series of independent studies, found no significant association between dementia or Alzheimer’s disease and the use of proton pump inhibitors.
The authors of this new study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, found that although these drugs have not been proven to cause dementia, continued use of these drugs reduces the risk of dementia in about 1 in 3 adults age 85 and older. Evidence shows it can pose a risk of dementia, which afflicts people, he said.
“Patients should talk to their doctor and share any medications they are taking,” said Kamakshi Lakshminarayan, Ph.D., a neurovascular surgeon at the University of Minnesota Graduate School of Public Health and the researcher’s study author. “They can review medications they may be taking, including over-the-counter medications, and discuss with their doctor why they are taking each medication.”
Dr. Fuad J. Moawad, a gastroenterologist and spokesperson for the American College of Gastroenterology, said previous studies that showed conflicting results on dementia risk “could confuse both patients and prescribers.” There is,” he said.
Dr. Moawad recommends taking the lowest effective dose for patients who need acid-control drugs for conditions such as severe reflux esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and peptic ulcer. He also recommends avoiding foods known to cause stomach acid, not eating within three hours of going to bed, elevating your head while you sleep, and losing weight.
