Scientists Warn Common Medications May Be Linked to Dementia

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00:00Scientists warn common medications may be linked to dementia.

00:04There is some bad news for those who use a type of acid reflux drug,

00:08particularly proton pump inhibitors, according to new research.

00:13These findings suggest that long-term use may increase the risk of developing dementia by as much as 33%.

00:19The American research team stated that the study only indicates an association, not absolute proof.

00:26Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus,

00:31causing heartburn and potentially developing into gastroesophageal reflux disease.

00:36PPIs such as omeprazole and lansoprazole work by blocking enzymes that produce acid,

00:42easing discomfort, and promoting healing.

00:44The study analyzed data from over 5,700 individuals aged 45 plus without dementia at the start.

00:52Participants were tracked for 5.5 years.

00:54Those who took PPIs for more than 4.4 years showed higher dementia rates compared to non-users.

01:02After controlling for factors like age and sex,

01:05researchers concluded long-term users had 33% higher risk.

01:09Short-term use showed no such association.

01:12Previous studies have linked extended PPI used to higher risks of kidney disease,

01:17bone fractures, infections, and stroke.

01:20Experts emphasize patients should not stop PPIs without medical guidance.

01:24Alternatives include weight loss, avoiding late meals, limiting alcohol and caffeine,

01:30elevating the bed head, and using over-the-counter antacids for mild cases.

01:35Patients with dementia risk should discuss options with health care providers

01:38to balance safety with symptom control.

01:41According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases,

01:45GERD affects nearly 20% of all Americans.

01:49If untreated, GERD can cause serious complications.