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We appreciate the thoughtful comments by Reyes regarding our recent article.¹ Reyes hypothesizes that an increase in the serum uric acid level induced by the use of diuretics may benefit the heart, blood vessels, and the brain. Diuretics, in addition to antihypertensive effect, were often prescribed for the treatment of symptoms of heart failure. Clinical trials have confirmed that, among patients with hypertension, low-dose diuretics are superior to other classes of antihypertensive agents (eg, calcium channel blockers and -blockers) in reducing the risk of heart failure.² The use of diuretics is known to increase serum uric acid concentration. Indeed, because uric acid could act as a powerful antioxidant, mild hyperuricemia might confer potential beneficial effects in reducing the risk of dementia including Alzheimer disease. However, Reyes's hypothesis remains in debate,³ and strong evidence in support of his hypothesis is lacking. Among the few studies addressing this issue, the . . . [Full Text of this Article]

AUTHOR INFORMATION
Chengxuan Qiu, MD, PhD; Bengt Winblad, MD, PhD; Laura Fratiglioni, MD, PhD

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