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Can Nexium Cause Alzheimer's Disease?

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Posted on Tue, 7 Jun 2016
Question: A friend heard on the news that Nexium has been linked to Alzheimer's & Dementia. Is this true?
I have been taking Nexium for over 10 years. Every time I stop taking it the acid gets unbearable.
I've tried other acid reducers and they do not work for me.
Thank you,
XXXXXXX XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
there's no definite answer...

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

although there are studies linking nexium use (and other proton pump inhibitors, PPI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) there's no proof that the drug is the cause. The studies focused on prescription data mostly and there is indeed a relation. One study showed that people who used PPI for a long time, had 44% more AD. Despite that, there is no certainty that the cause was the PPI.

Some potential mechanisms have been suggested, like reduced absorption of vitamin B12 or a direct effect of PPI on the brain, but no study has addressed this issue completely.

Alternatives include H2-receptor antagonists, prostaglandins, antacids.

I hope you find my comments helpful!
You can contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information.

Kind Regards!
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :1999

Answered : 3810 Questions

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Can Nexium Cause Alzheimer's Disease?

Brief Answer: there's no definite answer... Detailed Answer: Hello, although there are studies linking nexium use (and other proton pump inhibitors, PPI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) there's no proof that the drug is the cause. The studies focused on prescription data mostly and there is indeed a relation. One study showed that people who used PPI for a long time, had 44% more AD. Despite that, there is no certainty that the cause was the PPI. Some potential mechanisms have been suggested, like reduced absorption of vitamin B12 or a direct effect of PPI on the brain, but no study has addressed this issue completely. Alternatives include H2-receptor antagonists, prostaglandins, antacids. I hope you find my comments helpful! You can contact me again, if you'd like any clarification or further information. Kind Regards!