A recent large observational study found that adults with chronic low back pain who received six or more gabapentin prescriptions had a higher likelihood of later being diagnosed with dementia or mild cognitive impairment than similar patients who were not prescribed gabapentin. The association was stronger in younger adults (ages 18–64) and in people with more frequent prescriptions.
However, there are important limitations:
- The study does not prove that gabapentin causes dementia. It found an association, not a cause-and-effect relationship.
- People who need long-term gabapentin may differ in important ways from those who do not—for example, they may have more severe chronic pain or other health conditions that could also influence dementia risk.
- More research is needed to determine whether the medication itself, the underlying condition, or other factors explain the findings.
Should you stop taking gabapentin?
No—not without talking to your prescribing clinician. Gabapentin is an effective treatment for some conditions, including certain types of nerve pain and epilepsy. Stopping it abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and, in people taking it for seizures, may increase the risk of seizures.
Known side effects
More common side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Poor coordination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
Some people, particularly older adults, may also experience temporary problems with memory or concentration while taking it.
Bottom line
The new study raises an important question about the long-term use of gabapentin for chronic low back pain, but it does not show that gabapentin causes dementia. If you take gabapentin and are concerned, the safest approach is to discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare professional rather than stopping the medication on your own.
