In the latest Daily news highlights, a new study from the U.S. has shown that gabapentin, a commonly prescribed medication for seizures and nerve pain, may increase the risk of cognitive decline, especially when used long-term. The study revealed that people who receive six or more prescriptions for gabapentin have a 29% higher chance of developing dementia and an 85% higher risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
What is Gabapentin and Why is it Used?
Gabapentin is a drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of:
- Epileptic seizures
- Postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain after shingles)
- Restless legs syndrome (moderate to severe cases)
In addition, doctors often prescribe gabapentin off-label (not FDA-approved uses) for:
- Chronic lower back pain
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Alcohol withdrawal symptoms
- Diabetic nerve pain
- Hot flashes
Although helpful in many conditions, gabapentin can also cause side effects like dizziness, tiredness, dry mouth, and water retention. Previous studies have already hinted that gabapentin might be linked to memory loss or thinking problems, but this new study brings stronger evidence.
What the New Study Says
The study was published in the journal Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine. Researchers analyzed health data from over 26,000 adults using the TriNetX health research network. They focused on people with long-term pain issues, including:
- Chronic pain syndrome
- Chronic low back pain
- Lumbar radiculopathy
Participants were sorted into age groups: 18–34, 35–49, 50–64, and 65+. Over a 10-year period, the researchers monitored who developed dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or mild cognitive impairment.
Key Findings:
- People with six or more gabapentin prescriptions had a 29% greater risk of dementia
- They had an 85% higher risk of developing MCI
- Adults aged 35 to 49 had double to triple the risk, which surprised researchers
This means even younger adults may be at risk—not just the elderly who are already vulnerable to brain-related conditions.
What Experts Say
Nafis B. Eghrari, a medical student and lead author of the study, said:
“There’s still debate on whether gabapentin actually causes dementia. But our results clearly show a strong link. That’s why we need more research on how this drug affects the brain.”
Eghrari also advised:
- Doctors should regularly test the memory and thinking ability of patients who take gabapentin for a long time
- Patients should tell their doctor immediately if they feel confused, forget things, or feel mentally slower
Why Younger Adults Should Also Be Cautious
The most surprising part of the study was the high risk in adults aged 35 to 49. Usually, older adults are more likely to develop cognitive problems, but this study suggests that gabapentin may also affect younger brains more strongly.
Eghrari said this could mean the drug has a stronger effect on people who don’t already have age-related brain decline.
What Doctors Recommend
Dr. Neel Anand, an orthopedic spine specialist, was not part of the study but shared his views:
- Big studies like this one can give clues, but they cannot prove what exactly causes the problem
- Often, people take many drugs at the same time, making it hard to know which one is responsible
- The only way to be sure would be a long-term study where some people take only gabapentin, and others take none at all
Still, Dr. Anand believes the findings are a warning sign:
“If you take any medicine long-term, something might go wrong. Every drug has side effects.”
With millions relying on gabapentin worldwide, this research calls for further studies, better monitoring by doctors, and more awareness from patients about possible memory-related side effects.
