A large-scale study has found a troubling link between frequent gabapentin use and an increased risk of dementia, particularly among younger adults.
Patients with chronic pain who received gabapentin prescriptions six or more times had a 29% higher risk of developing dementia. Those with 12 or more prescriptions saw the risk jump to 40%. Alarmingly, the highest risk was observed in adults aged 35 to 49.
While the research does not prove that gabapentin causes dementia, it highlights a significant correlation that has experts urging caution. Doctors are advised to closely monitor the cognitive health of long-term users.
Important: Patients should not stop taking gabapentin without first consulting their healthcare provider.