Association Found Between Gabapentin Use and Increased Dementia Risk in Chronic Low Back Pain Patients

This Common Pain Med Could Be Raising Dementia Risk

New research has unveiled a startling correlation between the use of gabapentin, a commonly prescribed pain medication, and an increased risk of dementia. Gabapentin is typically used to treat nerve pain and restless leg syndrome, as well as chronic low back pain.

According to a study published in Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, researchers analyzed the medical records of over 26,000 patients diagnosed with chronic low back pain between 2004 and 2024. The analysis compared two groups: those who had been prescribed gabapentin six or more times and those who had not received the medication.

The findings indicate that individuals taking gabapentin were significantly more likely to develop dementia (around a 30% increased risk) and mild cognitive impairment (85% increase) compared to non-users. This heightened risk was particularly pronounced in patients under the age of 65, as well as those who had taken 12 or more prescriptions of gabapentin.

While correlation does not necessarily imply causality, these results do suggest a need for increased vigilance on the part of medical professionals and further research is warranted to confirm this link and elucidate its underlying mechanisms.

Source: gizmodo.com