Proton-Pump Inhibitors and Risk of Dementia

Chronic use of a proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) has been associated with a number of unexpected negative outcomes. The most recent revision of the American Geriatrics Society Beers criteria recommends avoiding using longer than eight weeks unless the patient is at high risk. However, this recommendation is often overlooked in the long-term care setting. Recent literature suggests a link between chronic PPI use and increased risk of dementia. A hypothesized mechanism for the relationship between PPI use and dementia has been supported by cellular and animal models. Because of lack of disease-modifying medications for dementia, prevention strategies are essential. The purpose of this article is to compile and summarize information from published research and clinical trials, allowing readers to draw individual conclusions that could potentially lead to a change in recommendations for acid-lowering therapies in an older population.