Scientists Reveal a Surprising Link Between Ibuprofen and Brain Health
If you or someone you know takes gabapentin for chronic back pain, here’s something important to know: a new study suggests this commonly prescribed drug may significantly increase the risk of developing dementia.
Gabapentin is typically used to treat seizures, nerve pain after shingles, and restless legs syndrome. While it helps many people manage pain by altering nerve signals in the brain, researchers at Case Western Reserve University have found a concerning connection—especially for those using it long-term.
What the Study Found
Researchers looked at medical records from 52,800 adults between 2004 and 2024—half of whom were prescribed gabapentin for chronic lower back pain, and half who weren’t. They found:
- People with 6 or more prescriptions of gabapentin had a 29% higher chance of being diagnosed with dementia within 10 years.
- The same group had an 85% higher risk of developing mild cognitive impairment, which can be an early sign of dementia.
- The more prescriptions people had, the greater the risk. Those with 12+ prescriptions saw a 40% increase in dementia risk and 65% increase in mild cognitive issues.
Younger adults weren’t immune either:
- In the 35–49 age group, dementia risk more than doubled, and mild cognitive problems tripled.
- Similar patterns were seen in adults aged 50–64.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia affects more than 6 million Americans and causes memory loss, poor judgment, difficulty thinking, and problems with language. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is often the first warning sign before more serious decline.
Important Caveats
Before you panic or make any changes to your medications, here’s what experts say:
- This study was observational, which means it can’t prove gabapentin causes dementia—only that there’s a strong link.
- The researchers didn’t have data on exact dosage or how long people had been taking the drug.
- Other factors—like low physical activity due to chronic pain—might also play a role in increasing dementia risk.
Dr. Tara Spires-Jones from the University of Edinburgh emphasized that while the study raises concerns, it doesn’t confirm a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
How to Protect Your Brain
Whether or not you take gabapentin, experts recommend these lifestyle habits to reduce your dementia risk:
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Stay physically active
- Keep socially engaged
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
- Manage chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes
The Bottom Line
Gabapentin has helped millions manage pain and seizures, but this new research adds a cautionary note—especially for long-term users. If you’re concerned, don’t stop taking it on your own. Talk to your doctor about your options and whether regular cognitive checkups might be a good idea.
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