Pharmacist cautions against self-medicating with ozempic for dementia risk reduction

“According to the latest figures released by the NHS, dementia diagnosis is at a record high in England.  

“This is great news for residents, as increased awareness results in increased diagnosis rates, meaning they can access services, medication and support. 

“Traditional medications used to treat patients with dementia include cholinesterase inhibitors like donepezil, galantamine and rivastigmine, while medical professionals recommend numerous diet and lifestyle changes to reduce the risk. 

“A recent study conducted by the University of Oxford revealed that participants who used Semaglutide (the main ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) had a lower risk of dementia. 

“At present, Semaglutide is used as a Diabetes (Ozempic) and weight loss management treatment (Wegovy).  

“This isn’t the first time that alternative medications have been identified as alternative treatments for dementia in recent years. Here’s some others:   

#1 Viagra 

“Clinical trial results have shown that Sildenafil (Viagra) can reduce the risk of vascular dementia (dementia caused by impaired blood flow or damaged vessels in the brain).  

“When tested on patients with this type of dementia, the blood vessels were able to open up, increasing blood flow and responsiveness.  

#2 Hormone replacement therapy  

“Scientists have discovered that estrogen therapy can protect the female brain from Alzheimer’s if taken before menopausal symptoms begin. 

“HRT is associated with better memory and larger brain volumes among gene carriers. 

 #3 Blood pressure drugs 

“In November 2022, a study revealed that blood pressure drugs that stimulate type 2 and 4 angiotensin II receptors in the brain were associated with lower rates of dementia among new users of these medications. 

“It’s thought that medications like Losartan (Cozaar) and Valsartan (Diovan), may improve blood flow in the brain or reduce amyloid plaque.   

But what do these studies all have in common?  

“While these studies are a step in the right direction to finding new ways to tackle cognitive decline in the future, it’s important they are received as they should be - as preliminary, early research.

“Medications should not be used for any other purpose than the way a prescriber has detailed and should be administered via a reputable source.

“You should also be honest about your intentions for obtaining a drug, as failing to mention existing health conditions or using them to treat other conditions can be extremely dangerous.

“These studies all require further research before they become effective treatment methods, so leave it to the professionals like a specialist, doctor or pharmacist to establish the best course of treatment.”