Abstract

ASSESSING THE NEUROLOGICAL SAFETY OF PROTON PUMP INHIBITORS IN AGING POPULATIONS

M. Thanuja*, P. Sailaja and Y. Prapurnachandra

ABSTRACT

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely prescribed for acid-related disorders, with their long-term use raising concerns about potential neurological risks. Initially considered safe, emerging evidence suggests that prolonged PPI use may contribute to dementia, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and possibly Parkinson’s disease (PD) through mechanisms such as increased amyloid-beta (Aβ) accumulation and vitamin B12 deficiency. Additionally, PPIs have been implicated in hepatic encephalopathy (HE) among patients with liver cirrhosis due to gut microbiome alterations. Other adverse effects, including myocardial infarction and nephropathy, may further exacerbate neurological complications. While the exact mechanisms linking PPIs to neurodegenerative diseases remain unclear, current findings highlight the need for cautious prescription practices, especially in older adults and at-risk populations. Further research is essential to fully understand the neurological implications of PPIs and to develop safer treatment strategies.

Keywords: Proton pump inhibitors, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, hepatic encephalopathy, amyloid-beta, Parkinson’s disease.