Prescription pain medication may potentially elevate the risk of developing dementia.
A new study led by scientists at Case Western Reserve University has raised concerns about the potential long-term effects of the medication gabapentin on cognitive health. The study, published in Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, analysed the medical records of over 26,000 U.S. patients with chronic low back pain.
The research found a correlation between gabapentin prescription and an increased risk of dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) within 10 years of the initial pain diagnosis. Patients receiving six or more gabapentin prescriptions were 85% more likely to develop MCI and 30% more likely to be diagnosed with dementia. This risk increased significantly among adults aged 35-64 and those who had 12 or more prescriptions, showing a 65% increased risk of MCI and a 40% increased risk of dementia.
However, it is important to note that the study's findings are observational, meaning they cannot establish a cause-and-effect relationship. Factors such as dosage and duration of use were not considered. Therefore, while the study suggests an association, it does not provide conclusive evidence of a direct causal link between gabapentin use and cognitive decline.
The researchers argue that these findings should motivate further research to confirm the genuine link and understand the exact mechanisms behind it. They also suggest that doctors should be more careful in how they prescribe gabapentin and be more proactive in tracking the cognitive health of their patients taking it.
Gabapentin, primarily used to manage chronic low back pain and also used to manage nerve pain and restless leg syndrome, works by reducing the abnormal electric activity of the brain's neurons. The study's results support the need for close monitoring of adult patients prescribed gabapentin for potential cognitive decline.
Recent research has found a link between gabapentin and a higher risk of dementia, adding to the growing body of evidence that warrants further investigation. As more is learned about this potential complication, doctors are encouraged to be more aware of the risks and take proactive measures to protect their patients' cognitive health.
- Gizmodo reported on a study by Case Western Reserve University scientists that linked gabapentin, a medication used for chronic pain and nerve disorders, to an increased risk of dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) over 10 years.
- The study, published in Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, revealed that patients receiving six or more gabapentin prescriptions were 85% more likely to develop MCI and 30% more likely to be diagnosed with dementia.
- Although the study's findings are observational and cannot establish a definitive cause-and-effect relationship, the researchers suggest that there may be a genuine link between gabapentin use and cognitive decline.
- To address these concerns, they call for more research on the subject and recommend that doctors be more diligent in monitoring and addressing the potential cognitive effects of gabapentin in their patients, particularly those aged 35-64 and those who have 12 or more prescriptions.
