Shingles Vaccine Shows Potential in Dementia Prevention and Treatment

A significant study suggests that the shingles vaccine, particularly Merck's Zostavax, can lower dementia-related mortality by almost 30%. The potential benefits go beyond prevention, indicating therapeutic prospects for existing dementia patients. Researchers are now exploring if GlaxoSmithKline's Shingrix might offer even greater advantages.

New research reveals that seniors who receive the shingles vaccine, specifically Merck's Zostavax, are significantly less likely to die from dementia. In a study spanning nine years, the vaccine lowered the risk of dementia-related death by nearly 30 percentage points.

Earlier findings also suggested that Zostavax reduced the likelihood of developing dementia. Dr. Pascal Geldsetzer from Stanford University highlighted the shingles vaccine's potential therapeutic benefits for current dementia patients, beyond its preventive capabilities.

Further investigation is underway to determine if GlaxoSmithKline's Shingrix, a newer and more effective shingles vaccine, could offer even greater protection against dementia. Similar protective patterns have been observed in health records across several countries.

(With inputs from agencies.)