NEW YORK, Feb 2: A common painkiller used by millions, ibuprofen, may have additional cognitive benefits, according to a recent study. Ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory typically taken for headaches, toothaches, back pain, and cold symptoms, has been found to possibly enhance memory and intelligence. Researchers claim that it may also speed up reaction times, offering benefits to brain function similar to the positive effects of lowering high blood pressure.

However, the study also revealed that taking paracetamol, another widely-used painkiller, could have the opposite effect, potentially worsening memory.

The research, conducted by University College London, examined the cognitive effects of common medications on nearly half a million people in the UK. The study suggested that medications used for pain relief, inflammation, osteoarthritis, heart disease, asthma, allergies, and high blood pressure may provide significant positive effects on cognitive abilities.

In contrast, the over-the-counter painkiller paracetamol and the prescription antidepressant fluoxetine were found to have the most adverse effects on memory and problem-solving skills.

While the study suggests a link between these medications and cognitive impacts, researchers emphasize that it does not provide definitive proof of causality. They advocate for clinical trials of all new medications to assess their potential effects on brain function, allowing doctors to better determine the most suitable drugs for patients.

Neurologist Martin Rossor, senior author of the study, highlighted the importance of considering the cognitive side effects of commonly used drugs, noting that medications are frequently prescribed, and many have adverse cognitive impacts. He emphasized the need for routine cognitive assessments in clinical trials to better understand these effects.

Despite the significance of this study, there has been little research on how common drugs affect cognition. One of the challenges in this area is that many of these drugs are taken most frequently by older individuals who may also be using other medications, making it difficult to isolate specific cognitive impacts. Additionally, any cognitive decline might be mistakenly attributed to aging rather than the medications themselves.

The study, funded by The Health Foundation charity, used medical data from around 540,000 men and women, up to 73 years old. It examined their medication use and performance in tests measuring reaction times, memory, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. The results, published in the journal Brain and Behaviour, revealed that people using one of ten common medications performed better in cognitive tests than those who did not take any medication.

Other painkillers found to have a positive impact on cognitive function included aspirin, codeine, and diclofenac (Voltaren). Medications used for heart disease, such as omega-3 triglycerides, glucosamine for osteoarthritis, atorvastatin for lowering cholesterol, and drugs like omeprazole and lansoprazole for heartburn, also showed beneficial effects. Multivitamin use was associated with positive cognitive outcomes as well.

On the other hand, amitriptyline, a medication used to treat migraines, was linked to the most significant negative effects on memory and cognitive function.