The Dangers of Heartburn Drugs
Recent studies have shown an association between heartburn medications known as proton pump inhibitors and an increased risk of dementia. Proton pump inhibitors are available over the counter and by prescription. They are prescribed for heartburn, acid reflux, peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux or GERD.
A study published in February of 2016, in the New England Journal of Medicine, found a strong statistical relationship between the regular use of proton pump inhibitors and the risk of dementia. The study included nearly 74,000 people over the age of 75 and it collected data for over seven years. Those taking these medications had a 44 percent greater risk of developing dementia than the study participants that did not take proton pump inhibitor drugs.
Another study called the German Study on Aging, Cognition and Dementia among older patients in primary care found similar results. They found a 38 percent increase in dementia and a 44 percent increase in Alzheimer disease compared those who had no history of proton pump inhibitor use.
A shocking study looked at the cognitive effects of short-term use of proton pump inhibitors in otherwise health your adults. The study looked at 60 participants between the age of 20 and 26 who had no signs of age related mental decline. They divided the participants into 6 groups with 5 of the groups receiving a different proton pump inhibitor drug and the 6th group receiving a placebo. After 7 days on the drugs, all of the participants receiving proton pump inhibitors showed clinically significant impairment in cognitive function. After taking the drugs for only 7 days performed worse on visual memory, executive function, working memory, planning functions and attention. Some of the drugs had less detrimental effects than others but the most commonly used proton pump inhibitor in the United States showed the most damage. This medication is also available over the counter without a prescription.
Studies have also found that proton pump inhibitors increase the risk of bone fractures and ischemic stroke. The Annals of Family Medicine published a meta-analysis study in 2011 that concluded that chronic or high dose use of proton pump inhibitors is associated with increased fractures including spine and hip fractures. A study of over 240,000 adults, with an mean age of 57, found that those using proton pump inhibitors had a 21 percent greater risk of having an ischemic stroke, when compared to nonusers. Recent studies also show a link between these drugs and poor absorption of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause mental decline and neuropathy. Many doctors now recommend regular testing for vitamin B12 deficiency for patients who take proton pump inhibitors. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking proton pump inhibitor medications.
Greg L. Crawford D.C., D.A.B.C.O. Foothills Chiropractic, 1337 East Prospect Road Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 493-2105 http://ftcollinschiropractor.com