A new study published in Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine has raised serious concerns about the long-term neurological effects of gabapentin, a drug commonly prescribed for nerve and back pain. According to researchers, frequent gabapentin use is associated with a significantly higher risk of both dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), particularly in middle-aged adults.
The study, which examined health records from 68 U.S. healthcare organizations via the TriNetX network, included over 26,000 adults who had been prescribed gabapentin and a matched control group. Findings revealed that:
- Patients who filled six or more its prescriptions had a 29% higher risk of Dementia.
- The same group also faced an 85% higher risk of developing MCI.
- Those aged 35 to 49 were particularly affected, showing over twice the risk of dementia and more than triple the risk of MCI compared to non-users.
Researchers also discovered a dose–response trend—those with 12 or more prescriptions were at even greater risk.
Medical Community Urges Caution, Not Alarm
The findings have drawn wide attention from medical professionals and news outlets, including UPI, Fox News, and Technology Networks. Experts, however, caution against panic.
Professor Martin Prince of King’s College London noted that the study cannot establish causality. Chronic pain itself, or early signs of cognitive decline, could explain increased gabapentin use. Likewise, Prof. Ian Maidment from Aston University pointed out that the research didn’t fully adjust for dosage or treatment duration—two critical factors in understanding drug impact.
Tara Spires-Jones, a neuroscientist at the University of Edinburgh, added that reduced physical activity—common among chronic pain sufferers—could be a contributing factor to cognitive decline, independent of it use.
Implications for Prescribers and Patients
Gabapentin, originally approved for seizures in the 1990s, has become a popular off-label treatment for chronic pain and nerve-related issues. Though not an opioid, it is often seen as a safer alternative—especially in the wake of the opioid crisis. However, this new data suggests the need for a more cautious approach, particularly for patients on long-term regimens.
Lead researcher Dr. Nafis Eghrari recommends regular cognitive monitoring for patients who have been on gabapentin for extended periods. Clinicians are advised to:
- Review its prescriptions more carefully.
- Discuss potential cognitive risks with patients.
- Consider alternatives where appropriate.
While the study’s observational nature prevents firm conclusions, it underscores the urgent need for further research. Future studies should investigate whether similar cognitive risks apply to related medications like pregabalin and examine the effects of dosage, treatment length, and age group more closely.
As the findings continue to ripple through the medical world, one thing is clear: gabapentin, while effective for many, may carry more risk than previously understood—particularly when used long term.
Sources:
https://www.upi.com/Health_News/2025/07/11/gabapentin-dementia-research/5501752251695
https://www.foxnews.com/health/popular-back-pain-medication-linked-brain-health-risks-some-patients
