Dementia is forecast to triple to 153 million by 2050, posing a significant threat to health and social care systems. Experts say repurposing antibiotics, antivirals, and vaccines could speed up the hunt for a cure. Researchers have analyzed data from over 130 million people and prescription records to identify potential links between commonly used drugs and dementia risk.
The study found associations between some medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, and a reduced risk of dementia. Unexpectedly, antibiotics, antivirals, and vaccines were also linked to a decreased risk, supporting the hypothesis that viral or bacterial infections may trigger some cases of the disease.
However, more research is needed to confirm these findings in clinical trials. The Alzheimer’s Society says repurposing existing drugs could save millions of pounds and decades in development time. While it’s too early to say if these existing medicines can reduce dementia risk, the study provides initial groundwork for further investigation into potential candidates.
The researchers’ finding that some drugs may be linked to a reduced or increased risk of dementia highlights the need for more consistent research. However, it also offers hope that repurposing existing medications could lead to new treatments and potentially save millions of people worldwide.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/jan/21/antibiotics-antivirals-and-vaccines-could-help-tackle-dementia-study-suggests