Gabapentin and Cognitive Decline: What You Need to Know
If you—or someone you love—takes gabapentin for chronic back pain, nerve pain, or other conditions, a new large-scale study delivers urgent, sobering news: this widely prescribed medication may carry a hidden risk most patients never hear about: a significantly increased chance of dementia and cognitive decline—especially in younger adults.
🔬 The Study: Key Facts
Led by: Case Western Reserve University
Data: Analyzed 26,414 U.S. adults prescribed gabapentin for chronic low-back pain
Compared to: A matched group with similar pain who did not take gabapentin
Timeframe: Followed patients for up to 10 years
Published in: Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine
📉 The Alarming Findings
Age Group
Dementia Risk
Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) Risk
35–49
More than doubled (+100%+)
More than tripled (+200%+)
50–64
Significantly elevated
Sharply increased
18–34
No increased risk
No increased risk
All adults (6+ prescriptions)
29% higher
85% higher
💡 Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) often precedes dementia—and is a critical warning sign.
💊 What Is Gabapentin—And Why Is It So Common?
Originally developed as an anti-seizure medication, gabapentin (brand names: Neurontin, Gralise, Horizant) is now widely prescribed off-label for:
