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Edited by: TJVNews.com
New research published in the medical journal “Neurology” by the American Academy of Neurology suggests that individuals who take acid reflux medications known as proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) for extended periods, specifically four-and-a-half years or more, may face a higher risk of developing dementia compared to those who do not take these drugs, as was reported on Thursday in the Jerusalem Post. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn and ulcers.
The JPost report said that the study focused on 5,712 participants aged 45 and older, with an average age of 75, who did not have dementia at the beginning of the study. Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole (Prilosec), esomeprazole (Nexium), and lansoprazole (Prevacid) were examined, according to the report. These medications are designed to reduce stomach acid by targeting enzymes in the stomach lining responsible for acid production.
In December 2021, the Epoch Times reported that PPIs work by raising stomach pH above normal range to inhibit secretion of pepsin, a digestive enzyme that can be irritating to stomach lining. While this action may provide temporary feelings of relief, it effectively blocks secretion of normal, healthy enzymes, impairing the body’s digestive function over the long-term. Lack of adequate stomach secretions can also expose us to harmful molds, viruses, and bacteria that may be present in our food.
PPIs have developed a list of known side effects that are reported to occur within days or weeks of onset of use, the Epoch Times report said. The most commonly reported short-term side effects of taking PPIs are:
1 – Digestive disturbances, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and gas
2 – Headaches
3 – Fever or cold symptoms, such as stuffy nose, sneezing, and sore throat
4 – Skin rashes
5 – Cognitive impairment
6 – Infection
Dr. Kamakshi Lakshminarayan, the study’s author from the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, noted that while PPIs are valuable for managing acid reflux, prior research had linked long-term usage to a heightened risk of conditions like stroke, bone fractures, and chronic kidney disease, as was reported by the JPost. The study aimed to investigate whether prolonged PPI use was associated with a greater likelihood of developing dementia.
“Proton pump inhibitors are a useful tool to help control acid reflux, however long-term use has been linked in previous studies to a higher risk of stroke, bone fractures and chronic kidney disease,” said Dr. Lakshminarayan, according to the JPost reported. “Still, some people take these drugs regularly, so we examined if they are linked to a higher risk of dementia. While we did not find a link with short-term use, we did find a higher risk of dementia associated with long-term use of these drugs.”
Participants were categorized into four groups based on their use of acid reflux drugs and the duration of use. The JPost report also indicated that over a median follow-up period of 5.5 years, it was observed that 585 individuals (10%) developed dementia. After adjusting for variables like age, sex, race, and health factors, the study found that those who used PPIs for more than 4.4 years had a 33% higher risk of dementia compared to those who never used the drugs, the JPost report added.
It is essential to note that this study does not conclusively prove a causal relationship between PPI use and dementia; it only establishes an association. The JPost report suggested that further research is required to fully understand the potential link and its underlying mechanisms. Individuals taking PPIs are advised to consult with their healthcare provider before making any changes to their medication regimen, as abruptly discontinuing these drugs may lead to worsened symptoms.
“More research is needed to confirm our findings and explore reasons for the possible link between long-term proton pump inhibitor use and a higher risk of dementia,” said Dr. Lakshminarayan, according to the JPost report.
“While there are various ways to treat acid reflux like taking antacids, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding late meals and certain foods, different approaches may not work for everyone. It is important that people taking these medications speak with their doctor before making any changes, to discuss the best treatment for them, and because stopping these drugs abruptly may result in worse symptoms,” Dr. Lakshminarayan added.
The JPost report also said that for individuals seeking to manage acid reflux without resorting to PPIs, alternative approaches include avoiding trigger foods, refraining from eating too close to bedtime, consuming smaller meals to aid digestion, and wearing loose-fitting clothing to prevent stomach discomfort.
The Epoch Times report of December 2021 warned of the possible dangers of ingesting PPIs on a regular basis for years. “It is of critical importance to note that the intended, reasonable use of these drugs has been hugely overshot. Approved by the FDA for short-term use only, these drugs are now taken daily by millions of people, sometimes for decades. Doctors have fallen asleep at the wheel when it comes to safeguarding patients from the harmful effects of medication abuse, and are now guilty of over-prescribing. The potential complications from PPIs are vast, as each individual responds to these and all drugs differently. It is up to each person to determine his or her acceptable level of risk, and a proper determination of risk cannot be made without first knowing the facts,” the Epoch Times reported.
The 2021 report in The Epoch Times also noted that, “the gut is believed to be our “second brain” due to the proliferation of biological signals that originate in the intestinal tract. The acid balance in the stomach, directly altered by PPIs, is now understood to play a vital role in the health of the all-important microbiome. PPIs alter the delicate pH balance in the gut, compromising microbial communities and corrupting these biological signals. Studies have linked damages to the health and diversity of beneficial gut microbes, directly to PPI use. A compromised microbiome can drive digestive complaints, and commonly reported PPI side-effects such as diarrhea and vomiting. Having an impaired microbiome for months or years can lead to serious diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, diabetes, liver disease, cancers, and more.”
The report added that, “other precautions when taking or considering a proton pump inhibitor are the potential for drug interactions or contraindications. Stomach acids are often instrumental in the absorption of swallowed medication, and for this reason, PPIs have the potential to negatively impact the effectiveness of any oral drug. Consult your doctor for advice on this and any matter related to medication. Above all, trust in your body’s ability to self-heal when given the right ingredients and opportunity. Dietary change can be the best antidote for digestive disturbances, and simple natural remedies deliver powerful support with no negative side effects.”
As the medical community continues to explore the potential impact of long-term medication use on various health outcomes, it’s crucial for patients to maintain an open dialogue with their healthcare providers to ensure that the most suitable treatment options are pursued while minimizing potential risks.
