Common over-the-counter pill linked to huge increased risk of dementia

Scientist have discovered a common pill taken by millions of people around the world can increase your chance of developing dementia by 44 per cent.

The pill is used to aid indigestion and is readily available over the counter. The study showed that elderly patients taking the proton pump inhibitor drugs, or PPIs were more likely to develop dementia than those who did not take the medication.

The pill is taking for digestive issues, such as gastroesophageal reflux and peptic ulcers, as well as indigestion and works to restrict the amount of acid produced in the stomach.

According to the German researchers people who used PPIs at least once every three months had a 44 per cent increased risk of dementia compared with those who did not take the drugs.

The researchers said their study, published the journal JAMA Neurology, had limitations because they had not been able to separate the different risk factors for dementia in each patient.

However, they noted that previous research has shown that people who take PPIs are often vitamin B12 deficient, which is a known risk factor for neurological damage.

Have you ever taken these pills? Do you worry about developing conditions like dementia?