Acid reflux medications like Omeprazole, commonly used by millions in the UK, have been linked to an increased risk of migraines, as per a study conducted in the USA. Researchers discovered that individuals who take acid-reducing pills may have a higher likelihood of experiencing severe headaches compared to those who do not use such medications.
These medications, which include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole and esomeprazole, histamine H2-receptor antagonists (H2 blockers) such as cimetidine and famotidine, and antacid supplements, are often prescribed for acid reflux, a condition where stomach acid moves into the esophagus, typically after meals or while lying down.
Acid reflux sufferers may encounter symptoms like heartburn and ulcers, with chronic acid reflux potentially leading to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition associated with esophageal cancer risk. Professor Margaret Slavin from the University of Maryland, the lead author of the study, emphasized the need for further research due to the widespread use of acid-reducing drugs and their potential connection to migraines.
The research team analyzed data from over 11,800 participants who reported their use of prescribed acid-reducing medications and history of migraines or severe headaches in the past three months. Results showed that 25% of PPI users experienced migraines or severe headaches, compared to 19% of non-users. Additionally, 25% of H2 blocker users and 22% of antacid supplement users reported severe headaches, higher than the respective non-user groups.
After adjusting for various factors like age, sex, caffeine, and alcohol consumption, the study revealed that PPI users were 70% more likely to have migraines, while H2 blocker users were 40% more likely, and antacid supplement users were 30% more likely. These findings were published in the journal Neurology Clinical Practice.
Professor Slavin advised individuals with acid reflux who also suffer from migraines or severe headaches to consult their healthcare providers regarding the continuation of these medications. While previous research indicated a potential link between gastrointestinal conditions and migraines, the study suggests that this relationship alone may not fully explain the association between acid-reducing drugs and migraines.