Common back-pain drug may be linked to higher dementia risk, large study finds

It’s often prescribed long-term for back pain, even though researchers note that many patients receiving it may also struggle with mobility — another known dementia risk factor.

But in this study, gabapentin users were matched with similarly limited patients who didn’t take the drug, suggesting mobility alone doesn’t explain the cognitive decline.

What this means for patients

The takeaway isn’t to panic, but to be informed.

If you or a loved one is taking gabapentin for back pain, experts say the study reinforces the importance of:

• Regular cognitive check-ins
• Talking with your doctor about risks and alternatives
• Avoiding unnecessary long-term use when possible

Gabapentin is still considered safer than many pain medications, but awareness matters.

As the researchers conclude, “Our findings indicate an association between gabapentin prescription and dementia or cognitive impairment within 10 years.”

Given the drug’s widespread use, that’s a message worth paying attention to.

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