Gabapentin Use Linked to Elevated Dementia and Cognitive Decline Risks

Recent research has unveiled a concerning association between the nerve pain medication gabapentin and heightened risks of developing dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). A study published in the journal Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine examined medical records and found that patients receiving six or more prescriptions of gabapentin for chronic low back pain faced a 29% increased likelihood of being diagnosed with dementia and an 85% greater chance of developing MCI within a decade of their initial diagnosis.

These risks are notably pronounced among younger adults, particularly those aged 18 to 64, who are typically not considered at risk for these cognitive conditions. The findings raise important questions about the safety profile of gabapentin, which has gained popularity as a treatment option for chronic pain due to its lower potential for addiction compared to opioids.

Researchers utilized data from TriNetX, a health research network that compiles electronic health records from 68 healthcare organizations across the United States. They reviewed anonymized records of over 26,000 adult patients, both those prescribed gabapentin and those who were not, over a period spanning from 2004 to 2024. The study accounted for various factors, including demographics, pre-existing conditions, and concurrent use of other pain medications.

The analysis revealed that individuals with six or more prescriptions of gabapentin were significantly more likely to receive a dementia diagnosis compared to their counterparts who had not been prescribed the drug. Furthermore, the elevated risks of cognitive impairment were exacerbated with increased frequency of prescriptions. Patients receiving 12 or more prescriptions showed a 40% increase in the likelihood of developing dementia and a 65% increase for MCI, compared to those who had between three and eleven prescriptions.

While the study did not find heightened risks among the youngest age group (18-34 years), those aged 35-49 exhibited more than double the risk for dementia and over triple the risk for MCI when prescribed gabapentin. Similar trends were noted for individuals aged 50-64.

It is essential to note that this study is observational in nature, which means it cannot definitively establish causation. The researchers acknowledged the retrospective design of the study, which limited their ability to analyze dosage and duration of gabapentin use comprehensively. Nonetheless, they concluded that there is a significant association between gabapentin prescriptions and the subsequent development of dementia and cognitive impairment.

The authors emphasized the necessity for healthcare providers to closely monitor patients who are prescribed gabapentin to identify any signs of cognitive decline over time. This research adds to the growing body of evidence concerning the potential long-term effects of gabapentin, particularly in populations that may not typically be monitored for cognitive health.