A new study has found a possible link between gabapentin, a painkiller commonly used for lower back pain, and an increased risk of dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The research, published in the journal Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, analyzed data from over 26,000 adults with chronic lower back pain who received gabapentin prescriptions.
The study found that patients who took gabapentin were more than twice as likely to develop dementia or MCI compared to those who did not receive the medication. The risk of cognitive decline increased with the number of prescriptions, with patients taking six or more doses showing a 29% higher likelihood of developing dementia and an 85% higher likelihood of developing MCI.
The researchers noted that the study’s limitations include its observational design and inability to account for dose and length of gabapentin use. However, the findings suggest that close monitoring of adult patients prescribed gabapentin may be necessary to assess for potential cognitive decline. The study’s authors called for further research into the topic to confirm or refute their findings.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/popular-back-pain-medication-linked-brain-health-risks-some-patients