Study Links Common Medications to Lower Dementia Risk
A recent systematic review has revealed a potential link between certain commonly used medications and a reduced risk of dementia. The study, which analyzed data from 14 research projects involving over a million dementia cases, suggests that antibiotics, antivirals, and various vaccines may play a role in lowering dementia risk.
Among the analyzed vaccines, those protecting against diphtheria, hepatitis A, typhoid, and combined hepatitis A and typhoid were found to be associated with a reduction in dementia risk by 8 to 32 percent. Researchers noted that the relationship between medication use and dementia risk varied across studies, but the trends were compelling enough to warrant further investigation.
The findings indicate that viral and bacterial infections could be significant risk factors for dementia. As a result, the researchers advocate for further exploration into the protective effects of vaccinations and other medications.
Currently, dementia treatments are limited, with most medications only addressing symptoms rather than underlying causes. This research may help scientists identify existing, licensed drugs that could be repurposed for dementia prevention, potentially speeding up the development of new treatments.
The study was published in the journal Alzheimer's and Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions, contributing to an ongoing effort to better understand and tackle the challenges posed by dementia.
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