The Brain or Body Choice: With These 6 Drugs You Might Not Have to Choose

April 28, 2026 — There is an interesting question going around among people of a certain age about aging. It basically boils down to one of these preferences. Would you rather lose your mind – but be healthy, or develop a terrible medical problem – and have your wits about you. Good news: researchers are finding that certain drugs, designed for physical problems, can actually help people avoid both of these problems.

Obviously, it’s a terrible choice. Most people I know tend to choose the latter (sick but solid mind). They also see that both options have their pluses and minuses. If you keep your marbles you will know that your body is sick and failing, and their will be pain and discomfort. But on the plus side, you can still connect with the world and other people. On the other hand, if you remain healthy but suffer from dementia – you won’t suffer, and never notice you’ve lost your cognitive abilities.

Enter 9 Drugs That Might Be Able to Stave Off Dementia

New research is showing that certain drugs might be able to help with both sides of the equation. Nine of them, developed to solve physical problems and diseases, might have the additional benefit of preventing or slowing down dementia.

Here is what the New York Times reported about these drugs. Many of them seen to offer benefits because they reduce inflammation.

Flu shots. One study found those who were immunized against the flu had a 40% less chance of developing dementia. Those who took the higher flu dose for people 65 and over did even better.

Shingles vaccine (Shingrix). Those who are immunized against shingles experience less dementia than those who are not. Women in particular seem to benefit.

Cholesterol and blood pressure medicines. Some, but not all, results show a reduction of dementia among people who take statins or blood pressure drugs. The reduction could be that people who are consistent about taking their medicines might live healthier lifestyles.

Anti-inflammatory drugs. A few research studies have found that drugs like ibuprofen can reduce the inflammation in the brain that might be linked to dementia. Other studies are less conclusive. Aspirin does not seem to help.

Diabetes drugs. Diabetes is often associated with dementia. It is thought that drugs to control that disease can reduce inflammation in the brain.

GLP-1 Medications (like Ozempic). A few observational studies linked weight loss drugs in this class with a lower risk of Alzheimers. Other early tests do not, so researchers are still working on a correlation.

Comment: Which would you choose: A good brain or a good body. Use the Comments section to share why.