Proton Pump Inhibitor Use and Risk of Dementia in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly used for gastroesophageal reflux disease. Previous studies have raised concerns about the impact of PPIs on cognition in older adults, but the evidence supporting this concern is lacking. This article aims to analyse the available data regarding the impact of long-term PPI use on cognition in older adults. We searched PubMed for relevant studies conducted between 2015 and 2022. Seventeen such studies were identified. Limitations to available research data include the fact that studies are mainly observational, use heterogeneous study methods and do not account for confounding variables such as B12 deficiency, Helicobacter pylori infection, and thyroid dysfunction. Overall, this search did not find a compelling association between PPI use and cognitive decline.