Heavy NSAID Use Linked to Dementia in Elderly

Study differs from previous studies; possibly due to delayed onset

24 april 2009- Contrary to earlier studies suggesting that users of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have a reduced risk of developing dementia, heavy NSAID use in the elderly is associated with a higher risk of developing dementia, according to a study published online April 22 in Neurology.

John C. S. Breitner, M.D., from the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Seattle, and colleagues examined the association between the use of NSAIDs and dementia in 2,736 elderly (65 years and older) dementia-free individuals.

Based on computerized pharmacy records, the researchers found that 351 individuals (12.8 percent) were heavy NSAID users (more than 500 standard daily doses) at baseline, while an additional 107 became heavy users during the follow-up period. After up to 12 years of follow up, 476 individuals developed dementia, of which 356 was Alzheimer dementia. Heavy NSAID use was associated with a higher risk of developing dementia (adjusted hazard ratios of 1.66 for dementia and 1.57 for Alzheimer dementia).

"These findings differ from those of other studies with younger cohorts," Breitner and colleagues conclude. "The results observed elsewhere may reflect delayed onset of Alzheimer dementia in NSAID users."

Abstract
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