Study links acid-reducing medications to increased risk of migraines

Study links acid-reducing medications to increased risk of migraines

People who take acid-reducing medications may have a higher risk of migraines and other severe headaches than people who do not take these medications, according to a study published online April 24, 2024neurology® clinical practice,an official journal of the American Academy of Neurology. Acid-reducing medications include proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole and esomeprazole, histamine H2 receptor antagonists or H2 blockers such as cimetidine and famotidine, and antacid supplements.

The study doesn't prove that acid-suppressing drugs cause migraines; it just shows an association.

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid enters the esophagus, usually after a meal or while lying down. People with acid reflux may experience heartburn and ulcers. People with frequent acid reflux can develop gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can lead to esophageal cancer.

Given the widespread use of acid-reducing medications and these potential effects on migraines, these results warrant further investigation. These medications are often considered over-prescribed, and new research has shown that there are additional risks associated with long-term use of proton pump inhibitors, such as an increased risk of dementia.”

Margaret Slavin, PhD, RDN,Study authorthe University of Maryland at College Park

For the study, researchers examined data from 11,818 people who reported their use of acid-suppressing medications and whether they had suffered from migraines or severe headaches in the last three months.

A total of 25% of participants who took proton pump inhibitors experienced migraines or severe headaches, compared to 19% of those who did not take these medications. A total of 25% of those who took H2 blockers experienced severe headaches, compared to 20% of those who did not take these medications. And 22% of those who took antacid supplements had severe headaches, compared to 20% of those who did not take antacids.

When researchers took into account other factors that could influence migraine risk, such as age, gender, and caffeine and alcohol consumption, they found that people who took proton pump inhibitors had a 70% higher risk of developing migraines than people who did not take proton pump inhibitors. Those taking H2 blockers were 40% more likely and those taking antacid supplements were 30% more likely.

"It's important to note that many people need acid-reducing medications to treat acid reflux or other conditions, and people with migraines or severe headaches who are taking these medications or supplements should talk to their doctors about whether to continue," Slavin said.

Slavin noted that the study only looked at prescription medications. Some of the medications became available for over-the-counter use in non-prescription strengths during the study period, but the use of these over-the-counter medications was not included in this study.

Other studies have shown that people with gastrointestinal disorders may suffer from migraines more often, but Slavin said that association likely cannot fully explain the link between acid-reducing medications and migraines found in the study.

One limitation of the study is that only a small number of people took the medications, particularly the H2 blockers.

Sources: