Summary: A new study found that long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is associated with a lower risk of developing dementia. The researchers followed 11,745 adults over five years and found that those who used NSAIDs for a long period had a 12% reduction in their risk of dementia.
However, short- and medium-term NSAID use did not provide the same benefits, and the total cumulative dose was not associated with risk reduction. These findings suggest that persistent anti-inflammatory effects may play a protective role against dementia.
Important facts
Long-term NSAID use: associated with a 12% lower risk of dementia. Short-term use: No significant protective effect was observed. The role of anti-inflammatory: Discovery supports the role of inflammation in the progression of dementia.
Source: Wiley
Previous studies have suggested that inflammation contributes to the development and progression of dementia, and that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs may help protect against dementia due to their anti-inflammatory effects.
A new, large, prospective study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society provides additional evidence and shows that long-term NSAID use is associated with a reduced risk of developing dementia.
In a population-based study of 11,745 adults with an average follow-up of 14.5 years, 9,520 participants used NSAIDs at any time, and 2,091 participants developed dementia. Long-term NSAID use was associated with a 12% reduction in the risk of developing dementia. Short- and medium-term use provided no benefits.
Furthermore, cumulative doses of NSAIDs were not associated with reduced risk of dementia.
The findings suggest that rather than intensive use of anti-inflammatory drugs, it may help protect against long-term dementia.
“Our research provides evidence regarding the potential preventive effects of anti-inflammatory drugs on the dementia process.
Corresponding author M. Arfan Ikram of Erasmu MC University Medical Centre Rotterdam, the Netherlands, said:
About this neuropharmacology and dementia research news.
Author: Sara Henning-Stout
Source: Wiley
Contact: Sara Henning-Stout – Wiley
Image: Image credited to Neuroscience News
Original Research: Findings will be published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
