New study links popular nerve pain drug to higher dementia risk

by DailyHealthPost Editorial

A recent study has unveiled a concerning link between gabapentin, a widely prescribed nerve pain medication, and an increased risk of dementia and mild cognitive impairment. The findings suggest that frequent use of the drug, particularly in younger adults, significantly elevates the chances of developing these cognitive issues within a decade. This revelation prompts a critical re-evaluation of gabapentin’s long-term safety, especially given its rising prescription rates.

Gabapentin’s Cognitive Impact Unveiled

Research conducted by Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, utilizing data from the TriNetX health research network, analyzed anonymous records of over 26,000 adults prescribed gabapentin for chronic lower back pain between 2004 and 2024. The study compared this group to a similar cohort not taking the drug, controlling for various health conditions and medications. The results indicate a clear association:

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  • Increased Dementia Risk: Individuals with six or more gabapentin prescriptions were 29% more likely to be diagnosed with dementia within 10 years.
  • Higher Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) Risk: The same group showed an 85% higher likelihood of developing MCI.

Frequency of Use Amplifies Risk

The study further highlighted that the risk of cognitive decline escalated with increased gabapentin prescription frequency:

  • Patients with 12 or more prescriptions faced a 40% higher chance of developing dementia.
  • This group also had a 65% higher chance of developing MCI compared to those with 3 to 11 prescriptions.

Younger Adults More Susceptible

While dementia typically affects older adults, the study found a particularly pronounced risk in younger demographics:

  • Adults aged 35 to 49 taking gabapentin were more than twice as likely to develop dementia and over three times more likely to develop MCI.
  • A similar trend was observed in those aged 50 to 64. No increased risk was found in individuals aged 18 to 34.

Key Takeaways

  • Gabapentin, commonly prescribed for nerve pain, epilepsy, and restless legs syndrome, may significantly increase the risk of dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
  • The risk is dose-dependent, with more frequent prescriptions correlating to higher chances of cognitive issues.
  • Younger adults (35-64) appear to be more vulnerable to these cognitive side effects.
  • The findings underscore the need for close monitoring of adult patients prescribed gabapentin for potential cognitive decline.

A Call for Caution and Monitoring

Gabapentin was initially approved by the FDA in 1993 for epilepsy and neuropathic pain caused by shingles. However, it is frequently prescribed off-label for a range of conditions, including depression, ADHD, migraine, and fibromyalgia. Its sales have tripled over the past decade, partly due to its perception as a safer alternative to opioids.

Despite its widespread use, concerns about gabapentin’s long-term effects have been raised previously. This new study, while observational and not proving causation, adds significant weight to these concerns. Medical professionals are urged to closely monitor patients on gabapentin for signs of cognitive decline and to engage in thorough discussions about potential risks with patients, especially given the drug’s increasing prevalence.

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