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

Not necessarily. The researchers were careful to note this was an observational study, meaning that it shows a strong association — not proof of direct cause.

Also, they couldn’t analyze exact dosage or duration.

However, the dataset was huge, and the findings aligned with other emerging concerns about gabapentin’s side effects.

Why gabapentin use has skyrocketed
Gabapentin has been around since the early ’90s, originally approved to treat epilepsy. Over the years, doctors have increasingly turned to it for nerve pain, chronic pain, post-shingles pain, and restless legs syndrome because of the fact that it’s seen as a safer alternative to opioids.

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

However 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.

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