Gabapentin Use Linked to Increased Dementia Risk, New Study Reveals

A recent study published in the journal *Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine* suggests that the common nerve pain medication gabapentin may be associated with a heightened risk of dementia. Researchers from Case Western Reserve University, led by medical student Nafis Eghrari, found that regular use of gabapentin is linked to a 29% increase in dementia risk and an 85% increase in the likelihood of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among adults. The investigation analyzed health records of over 26,400 patients prescribed gabapentin for chronic low back pain, contrasting them with a control group of similar patients who were not prescribed the drug.

The findings indicate that not only does gabapentin pose potential risks for older adults, but it may also affect younger patients. Specifically, individuals aged 18 to 64 who were prescribed gabapentin were found to be more than twice as likely to develop dementia or MCI, particularly among those aged 35 to 64, where risks more than doubled for dementia and tripled for MCI. The study highlights that patients receiving frequent prescriptions, defined as six or more, had even greater risks—40% more likely to develop dementia and 65% more likely to develop MCI compared to those with fewer prescriptions.

Gabapentin, originally approved for treating seizures and later adopted for conditions such as nerve pain and restless leg syndrome, has gained popularity due to its lower addictive potential compared to opioids. However, the current study raises concerns about its long-term cognitive effects. According to Dr. David Anderson, a neurologist at the Cleveland Clinic, “This study underscores the necessity for healthcare providers to monitor cognitive function in patients prescribed gabapentin, especially in the younger demographic who may not typically be considered at risk for cognitive decline.”

The researchers caution that their findings are based on observational data, which does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between gabapentin use and cognitive impairment. They emphasize the pressing need for further investigation to clarify whether gabapentin contributes causally to dementia and to explore the underlying mechanisms at play.

In light of these findings, experts advocate for a reassessment of gabapentin's clinical guidelines. Dr. Emily Roberts, a geriatrician at Johns Hopkins University, remarked, “Given the increasing number of patients being prescribed gabapentin, it is crucial that we understand its potential cognitive risks. This study could be a turning point in how we approach pain management in the elderly.”

The implications of this research extend beyond individual health, potentially influencing public health policies and prescribing practices. As gabapentin continues to be a mainstay in pain management, both healthcare providers and patients must weigh the benefits of pain relief against the possible cognitive risks highlighted by this study. The research team concluded that ongoing studies are essential to better delineate the relationship between gabapentin and cognitive decline, aiming to safeguard patients' mental health in future treatment plans.