Heartburn Headache: Cumulative PPI Use and Dementia Risk

Authors:
Molly M. Corder, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP
Ryan S. Ades, PharmD, BCPS

Reviewers:
Rebecca Heath, PharmD
Katherine Montag Schafer, PharmD, BCACP

Citation:
Northuis C, Bell EJ, Lutsey PL, et al. Cumulative Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors and Risk of Dementia: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study. Neurology. 2023; 101 (18): e1771-e1887.

The Problem

Omeprazole ranks among the top 10 most prescribed medications in the United States^1, and many patients take proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for years. Widespread PPI use persists despite data about potential serious adverse effects.  Some worry that PPI use increases the risk of dementia.  Are those worries supported by data?