Ibuprofen as possible preventative for Alzheimer's Disease?

There are new findings in research of the use of painkiller Ibuprofen in preventing Alzheimer's Disease. Earlier studies had hinted that Ibuprofen, commonly known as Advil, Motrin or Nuprin, and other anti-inflammatory drugs might delay the onset of Alzheimer's, but experts say that this is the largest study to date and perhaps the most convincing.

According to the newest study, people who use Ibuprofen on a daily basis for five years may be less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease as they age. A closer look reveals this philosophy: Alzheimer's disease can be reduced by as much as 60 percent by frequent consumption of the common anti-inflammatory drug Ibuprofen over two years or longer with the risk of developing Alzheimer's decreasing the longer a person uses Ibuprofen. Those using the drug for five years or more were 40 percent less likely to develop this dementia.

Another NSAID, Naproxen (Aleve) was mentioned in the study as a possible preventative as well, however, Ibuprofen remains the most effective in fighting off this disease.

The theory behind Ibuprofen as being a possible preventative stems from the fact that anti-inflammatory drugs reduce swelling. The suggestion is that taking Ibuprofen daily would keep the brain from swelling, therefore reducing the risk of Alzheimer's.

"It's not clear what the mechanisms are," Vlad said. "It may have to do with reducing inflammation in the brain, reducing a component of the plaques which are a hallmark of Alzheimer's, or some as-yet unidentified process", he added.

"A clinical trial of Ibuprofen for the prevention of Alzheimer's disease would be reasonable to get the risks and benefits," Vlad said. "There's also going to be ongoing research into developing drugs like Ibuprofen without the toxicities."

Another interesting note: Researchers suggest that poor nutrition may have much to do with increasing the risk of Alzheimer's. According to the researchers, poor nutrition in early life and other factors could influence intelligence and levels of education and, eventually the risk of dementia.

There are ongoing debates as to the recommended daily usage, the time frame of regular usage and the fact that the NSAIDs have well-known side effects and significant side effects, so the risk-benefit ratio is not clear at this time. The NSAIDs are known for the gastrointestinal side effects associated with long-term usage of these

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