A recent study published in the BMJ has found that a drug used to treat type 2 diabetes, called sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, may be associated with a 35% lower risk of developing dementia. The global prevalence of dementia is expected to increase significantly in the coming years, with associated health and social costs already exceeding $1 trillion per year.
The study, conducted in Korea, analyzed data from over 220,000 type 2 diabetics aged between 40 and 69 who did not already have dementia. Participants taking SGLT-2 inhibitors were found to have a lower risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, compared to those taking another drug called dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors.
While the authors noted that the study was observational and could not prove causation, they emphasized the potential of repurposing existing medications to treat dementia. Dr. Jacqui Hanley of Alzheimer’s Research UK expressed optimism about the findings, highlighting the need for effective treatments for dementia.
However, Prof William Whiteley of the British Heart Foundation data science center cautioned that the study’s results may be influenced by its design. He pointed out that the observed reduction in dementia risk with SGLT-2 inhibitors was larger than the effects of other medications aimed at preventing dementia or cardiovascular events.
Further research and clinical trials are needed to confirm the potential benefits of repurposing medications like SGLT-2 inhibitors for dementia treatment. Despite the uncertainties, the study provides a valuable insight into potential new avenues for addressing the growing challenge of dementia worldwide.
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