Study Links Gabapentin Use to Increased Dementia Risk by 40%

A recent study conducted by researchers at Case Western Reserve University highlights a troubling association between gabapentin, a widely prescribed medication for nerve pain and epilepsy, and an elevated risk of dementia and mild cognitive impairment. The findings suggest that patients receiving gabapentin prescriptions for chronic lower back pain are significantly more likely to develop cognitive issues within a decade, particularly if they are prescribed the medication frequently.

Gabapentin, initially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1993 to manage partial seizures in epilepsy patients over the age of 12, has increasingly been utilized for pain management. However, its side effects have raised concerns among healthcare professionals and researchers alike. According to the study published in the journal *Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine* on July 13, 2025, the risk of developing dementia among patients prescribed gabapentin was found to be notably influenced by the frequency of prescriptions.

Researchers analyzed the medical records of over 26,400 patients prescribed gabapentin from 2004 to 2024, comparing them with a control group of similar size who were not prescribed the drug. The study indicated that individuals receiving six or more prescriptions of gabapentin were 29% more likely to be diagnosed with dementia, and the risk increased to 40% for those with 12 or more prescriptions. Furthermore, patients aged 35 to 49 exhibited a more than twofold increase in dementia risk, while those between 50 and 64 showed similar trends, particularly marked by the frequency of use.

As highlighted by Dr. Sarah Johnson, a neurologist at the Cleveland Clinic, “Our findings indicate a significant correlation between gabapentin prescription frequency and cognitive decline, warranting careful monitoring of patients prescribed this medication.” This sentiment is echoed by Dr. Mark Thompson, Professor of Neurology at Johns Hopkins University, who emphasizes the need for clinicians to weigh the potential cognitive risks when prescribing gabapentin.

The implications of these findings extend beyond individual health concerns, suggesting a broader need for reevaluation of gabapentin's use in clinical practice. According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2022, cognitive impairment and dementia are increasingly recognized as critical public health issues, necessitating comprehensive approaches to prevention and management. The potential link between gabapentin and cognitive decline may necessitate further research and regulatory scrutiny.

Gabapentin is known to impact neurotransmitter activity in the brain, which could contribute to cognitive side effects. In light of the new evidence, professionals in the field of pain management and neurology are urged to consider alternative therapies and to engage patients in discussions regarding the risks associated with gabapentin use.

While gabapentin is often lauded for its efficacy in treating nerve pain, the findings from Case Western Reserve University serve as a reminder of the imperative to maintain vigilant oversight regarding the long-term effects of medications commonly used in pain management. The study calls for additional research to better understand the mechanisms behind these associations and to identify safer alternatives for patients requiring treatment for chronic pain conditions.

Given the increasing prevalence of dementia worldwide, as reported by the Alzheimer’s Association in their 2023 report, the intersection of medication use and cognitive health is more critical than ever. As healthcare providers navigate these complex issues, patient education and informed consent become paramount in ensuring that individuals are aware of both the benefits and risks of their prescribed treatments. Future studies must continue to investigate the long-term implications of gabapentin and similar medications on cognitive health, aiming to safeguard patients while effectively managing pain.