Millions of individuals rely on over-the-counter heartburn medications to find relief, but a new study conducted in Maryland suggests that these drugs may be associated with a higher risk of severe headaches, specifically migraines. The research, conducted by scientists at the University of Maryland, analyzed data from over 11,800 individuals, including 2,100 participants who used over-the-counter anti-heartburn medications.

The study focused on two types of medications commonly used for heartburn relief: antacids containing calcium carbonate, such as TUMS, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Prilosec. The findings revealed that individuals using these medications had an increased risk of migraines compared to those who did not use them.

Of the participants using antacid treatments, approximately 28 percent reported suffering from migraines in the previous three months, compared to 24 percent of non-users. The study also highlighted specific risks associated with each medication. Taking calcium carbonate increased the risk of migraines by 30 percent, while using PPIs raised the risk by a staggering 70 percent.

Researchers believe that dehydration, which may be caused by these medications, could be a common trigger for migraines. They also expressed concerns about previous research linking these drugs to dementia, given that repeated headaches have also been associated with a heightened risk of blood vessel damage in the brain.

Heartburn affects over 60 million Americans and is caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, resulting in a burning sensation in the chest. While these over-the-counter medications are widely used, they have been associated with various side effects such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, gas, and dry mouth.

The study by the University of Maryland adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting a potential link between acid reflux medications and migraines. The research utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Evaluation Survey conducted between 1999 and 2004, in which participants were asked about migraines or headaches experienced in the previous three months.

Migraines are more than just regular headaches; they are a neurological condition that can cause severe head pain, along with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, blurry vision, mood changes, diarrhea, and fatigue. Study participants who used proton pump inhibitors reported having severe headaches 25 percent of the time, compared to 19 percent for non-users. Additionally, individuals using H2 blockers, another type of acid-reducing medication, had a 25 percent chance of experiencing severe headaches compared to 20 percent for non-users.

Dr. Margaret Slavin, a nutrition science expert involved in the study, emphasized the need for further investigation into the potential implications of acid-reducing medications on migraines. She also raised concerns about the overprescription of these drugs and their association with long-term risks, including a higher risk of dementia.

While acknowledging that some individuals require acid-reducing medications to manage acid reflux and other conditions, Dr. Slavin urged those with migraines or severe headaches who are using these drugs to consult their doctors regarding whether they should continue taking them.

It is important to note that the study had some limitations, including the relatively small number of participants who were using heartburn medications. The findings were published in Neurology Clinical Practice, the official journal of the American Academy of Neurology, and serve as a call for further research into the potential risks associated with over-the-counter heartburn medications.