
Explained: Gabapentin's hidden side effects—From pain relief to brain fog
TL;DR
Gabapentin might raise dementia risk by ~30–40% in frequent or long-term users .
Younger users (35–64) seem especially affected
It's not proof of cause—but strong enough to rethink long-term use.
Other meds have similar risks—be informed across the board.
Lifestyle is a powerful buffer—exercise, mindful diet, social engagement, mental stimulation.
Chat with your doc, don't self-diagnose or detox alone.
You've got persistent nerve pain—maybe from shingles, back trouble, or restless legs syndrome—and your doctor prescribes gabapentin, a drug originally developed to treat seizures.
You're told it's generally safe aside from needing a bit more sleep, and sometimes feeling like your head's in a fog. But now... headlines say it might increase your risk of dementia by up to 40%.
Before you yank your prescription and panic-type in Google, let's break down what this all means.
What is Gabapentin?
Gabapentin is a medication first approved in 1993 for treating epilepsy. Soon after, its knack for reducing nerve pain—from post-shingles neuralgia to diabetic neuropathy—made it wildly popular.
It's generally considered safer and less addictive than opioids. Side effects? Sure—sleepiness, dizziness, headaches, nausea. But for many, the relief from chronic pain outweighs those little annoyances.
New study: What did researchers do and find?
A recent
study
published in Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine analyzed records from 68 U.S. health systems, comparing patients with chronic low back pain. The ones who'd had six or more prescriptions of gabapentin were 29% more likely to develop dementia, and 85% more likely to experience mild cognitive impairment (MCI)—all within a decade of their first pain diagnosis.
The darker stat? People with 12 or more prescriptions faced a 40% increased dementia risk and a 65% bump in MCI risk versus those with fewer prescriptions. Age mattered too. Those aged 35–64 saw more dramatic effects, with dementia risks doubling for 35–49-year-olds and MCI risk tripling.
So, should you ditch Gabapentin?
Not without chatting with your doctor. Here's the smart play:
Doctors might explore alternatives, such as topical therapies, antidepressants (off-label), or even non-drug therapies like mindfulness or physical therapy.
Lifestyle remains king: exercise, brain games, healthy diet—all proven to protect cognition .
What about other dementia-linked medications?
This isn't just about gabapentin. Other common drugs have been under the microscope:
Benzodiazepines (like Valium, Xanax) and opioids have also been linked to higher
dementia
risks
Over-the-counter meds like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and omeprazole (for heartburn) might have their own
concerns
if used long-term
Gabapentin is unique in that it's often seen as a safer alternative—but newer evidence means we may need to rethink that assumption.
Why are these associations possible?
Several biological theories are floating around:
CNS depression: Gabapentin calms brain activity—great for hyperactive nerves. But could it also dull cognition over time? Possibly.
Chronic pain itself is linked to faster memory decline. So is pain causing dementia, or is gabapentin? Hard to say.
Lack of physical activity and social isolation often accompany chronic pain—and both are known dementia risk factors.
So it might be a combination of factors, not just the drug itself.
What should you do if you're on Gabapentin?
Here's a mini checklist to guide your next steps:
Talk to your doctor—especially if you've been prescribed gabapentin frequently or long-term.
Ask about brain monitoring: cognitive assessments every year or two could catch changes early.
Explore alternatives: viability depending on your condition—other meds or therapy.
Boost lifestyle defenses: walk, chat, do puzzles, eat well. (Yep, the brain benefits from spinach and Sudoku.)
Educate your support system: family and friends can help notice memory lapses.
Don't abruptly quit: stopping suddenly could worsen pain or trigger withdrawal—the switch should be managed.
Bottom Line
Gabapentin has been a go-to painkiller, especially as we try to avoid opioids.
New research suggests a link to dementia risks, particularly with frequent/prolonged use.
But it's not a deal-breaker—especially if you use it responsibly and under medical supervision.
Still, this is a wake-up call: time to talk to your doctor, think critically, and monitor brain health.
Gabapentin-dementia risk FAQs:
Does gabapentin really increase the risk of dementia?
Recent research suggests that long-term or frequent use of gabapentin may be associated with a higher risk of developing dementia or mild cognitive impairment. However, the study was observational, so it doesn't prove causation. It highlights the need for more research and regular cognitive monitoring in long-term users.
Who is most at risk from gabapentin-related cognitive issues?
The study found that people aged 35 to 64, especially those who had 6 or more prescriptions over time, were at higher risk. Those with 12 or more prescriptions had up to a 40% increased risk of developing dementia compared to people who used less or none.
Should I stop taking gabapentin if I'm currently using it for pain?
No—do not stop taking gabapentin suddenly, especially without consulting your doctor. If you're concerned, speak with your healthcare provider to review your dosage, explore alternatives, or discuss ways to monitor your cognitive health.
Are there safer alternatives to gabapentin for managing nerve pain?
Yes, depending on your condition. Alternatives include physical therapy, certain antidepressants, topical treatments, or other medications. Your doctor can recommend the best option based on your specific needs and health history.
How can I protect my brain health while managing chronic pain?
Besides regular medical reviews, focus on brain-friendly habits: stay physically active, eat a balanced diet, manage stress, stay socially connected, and challenge your mind with puzzles, reading, or learning. These lifestyle habits can support cognitive function even while managing long-term pain.

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Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Vision loss due to Diabetic Retinopathy: A national crisis
As India grapples with an escalating diabetes crisis, with 101 million 1 diagnosed and 136 million with pre-diabetes, the country is faced with an urgent but unrecognised public health threat from Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) and Vision-Threatening Diabetic Retinopathy (VTDR). A staggering 16.9% of people with diabetes suffer from DR, and 3.6% from VTDR 2 and face irreversible blindness. It strikes people in their most productive years, severely impacting their quality of life and creating profound economic and social ramifications. As India aims to become a developed economy by 2047 (Viksit Bharat), improving citizens' quality of life is a key government agenda. Retinal diseases, often overlooked, demand the same urgency and national focus that transformed cataract care in the country. In response to this urgent challenge, Mission Vision has been launched to elevate retinal health to the forefront of India's public health agenda. Mission Vision: A confluence of expertise Mission Vision, a public health initiative by The Vitreo Retinal Society of India (VRSI) and Times of India, supported by Roche, has been launched to tackle preventable blindness and improve retinal health in India. Under Mission Vision, the VIEW Council, a multi-stakeholder task force of retina experts, ophthalmology societies, policymakers, and industry partners has been formed to focus on reducing the burden of avoidable blindness due to DR. The inaugural meeting saw strong participation from the VRSI leadership, alongside other leading experts. The Council pledged to drive multi-stakeholder action, build awareness, advocate for early screening, and better access to treatment across India. [L to R] Dr. Vinod Aggarwal (Professor of Vitreo Retina Services, AIIMS, New Delhi); Dr. Muna Bhende (Director Vitreo Retinal Services, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai); and Dr. Rajeev R Pappuru (Consultant Ophthalmologist, Vice Chair, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad) Founding members of the VIEW council Dr. R Kim (President, VRSI and Chief Medical Officer, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai) Dr. Manisha Agarwal (General Secretary, VRSI and HOD, Vitreo Retina Dept, Dr Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi) Dr. Vishali Gupta (Chief of Retina and Uvea Services at Post Graduate Institute (PGI) of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh) Dr. Muna Bhende (Director Vitreo Retinal Services, Sankara Nethralaya , Chennai) Dr. Vinod Agarwal (Professor of Vitreo Retina Services, AIIMS, New Delhi) Dr. Rajeev R Pappuru (Consultant Ophthalmologist, Vice Chair, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad) Dr. Chaitra Jayadev (Senior Consultant- Vitreoretina Services, Narayana Nethralaya, Bengaluru) Dr. Partha Biswas (President, AIOS and Medical Director at Netralayam and Trenetralaya , Kolkata) Dr. Ajay Aurora (Executive Director Vitreoretina Consultant , Vision Plus Eye Centre, Noida) Ms. Rajwinder (Rajji) Mehdwan (CEO and MD, Roche Pharma) [L to R] Ms. Rajwinder (Rajji) Mehdwan (CEO and MD, Roche Pharma); Dr. Muna Bhende (Director Vitreo Retinal Services, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai); Dr. Rajeev R Pappuru (Consultant Ophthalmologist, Vice Chair, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad); Dr. Manisha Agarwal (General Secretary, VRSI and HOD, Vitreo Retina Dept, Dr Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi); and Dr. R Kim (President, VRSI and Chief Medical Officer, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai) The experts acknowledged the tremendous efforts taken by the government to combat blindness secondary to cataract; however, the tide of retinal disorders due to diabetes is a growing and urgent problem. A recurring theme was the critical need for a massive, nationwide awareness campaign. Nearly nine out of 10 patients with diabetes had never had a retinal examination 3 , showing the enormity of the problem. Driving focus on retinal disorders and making annual retinal examinations a national priority will ensure this growing disease burden is addressed. [L to R] Dr. Manisha Agarwal (General Secretary, VRSI and HOD, Vitreo Retina Dept, Dr Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi) and Dr. R Kim (President, VRSI and Chief Medical Officer, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai); Dr. Chaitra Jayadev (Senior Consultant- Vitreoretina Services, Narayana Nethralaya, Bengaluru); Dr. Vishali Gupta (Chief of Retina and Uvea Services at Post Graduate Institute (PGI) of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh); and Dr. Partha Biswas (President, AIOS and Medical Director at Netralayam and Trenetralaya, Kolkata) Dr. R Kim emphasised the need for a collaborative approach, stating, 'Several stakeholders must be involved to increase awareness. Not only the patients with diabetes, but even primary care physicians, diabetologists, chemists, and optometrists must be made aware of the dangers of retinal disorders like DR. It is about starting a national conversation where every patient asks for an eye exam. We cannot afford to lose another person's vision to silence.' This sentiment was echoed with a call for making screening ubiquitous. Dr. Manisha Agarwal drew a powerful analogy for its ideal accessibility, 'Diabetes is silently stealing the sight of millions across urban and rural India, often without any warning. The real tragedy is that blindness due to DR is preventable. DR screening should be as accessible as the availability of a weighing machine at railway stations. On the other hand, the inclusion of intravitreal injections in Ayushman Bharat , with its need being assessed by OCT, can go a long way towards improving access to treatment.' Experts also highlighted the need to leverage government schemes. Dr. Vishali Gupta pointed out, 'Ayushman Bharat has been a phenomenal effort to ensure that treatment reaches the most vulnerable. NGOs and strategic public-private partnerships can also help in improving awareness and DR screening at the grassroots level. However, a lot needs to be done towards upskilling the ophthalmologists to screen and evaluate patients with retinal disorders effectively.' Creative strategies for awareness such as reaching out to schools and organizations with a large sedentary population were also discussed. Dr. Muna Bhende suggested a two-pronged approach for different demographics. 'School children can become your primary influencers, and sensitize their parents to the dangers of blindness due to DR. Also, awareness programmes can leverage the trust that NGOs have built with the local population to ensure the message reaches every corner of India.' Setting a clear, ambitious goal was seen as crucial. Dr. Rajeev R Pappuru articulated a powerful vision for the future. 'By 2030, no diabetic should go without an eye check-up, including a retinal screening. From the first diagnosis of diabetes to annual follow-ups, DR screening should become an integral part of diabetes care, with access at the patient's doorstep.' To achieve all of this, patient empowerment is key. Dr. Vinod Agarwal said, 'Our growth over the past few decades has been due to the demand in services. Raise awareness to the level that the patients demand DR screening and we can then offer it as a service. That will help in widespread adoption of screening and also help in mandating the availability of fundus cameras at all centres. Also, the inclusion of intravitreal injections in Ayushman Bharat can go a long way towards improving access to treatment for DR.' Currently, Ayushman Bharat includes DR screening in 12 states but only upon submission of an OCT photograph, which restricts its use by physicians who may not have an OCT machine. In some states, the government has supplied physicians and diabetologists with non-mydriatic fundus cameras which help in detection of DR. Expansion of DR screening under Ayushman Bharat to all states and the implementation of such scalable screening models can improve DR detection significantly, the experts opined. Dr. Chaitra Jayadev emphasised, 'Every physician who encounters a patient with diabetes must urge them to go for retinal screening. The outstanding success with the pulse polio program shows us that widespread awareness campaigns can yield results. Our country's technological prowess can be leveraged to develop low-cost screening devices that can help us reach every patient. Linking the Aadhar ID/digital health IDs to medical records can also help clinicians track the patient's progress and ensure adequate follow-up.' Alongside awareness, building capacity is also important. With only 3500 retinal specialists available, striking a balance by finding innovative avenues to upskill the workforce is essential. Dr. Partha Biswas stressed, 'Academic enhancement and capacity building should go hand-in-hand with increasing awareness. Training postgraduate students in fundus screening and enhancing their ability to detect these disorders can help improve access to care.' Addressing the infrastructure gap is another critical piece of the puzzle. Dr. Ajay Aurora provided a stark reality check. 'There are 806 districts in India but only 50% have district hospitals, and only two-thirds of those have ophthalmology services. Putting a hub-and-spoke model in place so that patients are referred to adequately equipped care centres is essential.' Speaking on the need for urgent action, Roche Pharma's Rajwinder (Rajji) Mehdwan said, 'To millions suffering from retinal diseases, the gift of vision should be a guarantee, a right, supported by the very best of our science, our policy, and our collective will. The question is not if we can eliminate preventable vision loss, but how soon we act to build a future where sight is accessible for all. Vision health is not a luxury but a necessity for every individual to live a fulfilling life. By making it a national priority, we can ensure a world where everyone has the opportunity to see clearly and experience life to its fullest. Roche is committed to bringing its global healthcare ecosystem shaping expertise to make Mission Vision a reality.' [L to R] Dr. Indu Bhushan (Former CEO, National Health Authority & Ayushman Bharat) and Dr. Rajni Kant Srivastava, ICMR- Chair for Disease Elimination The discussion coalesced around the need for concrete policy action with contributions from eminent policymakers. Dr. Indu Bhushan (Former CEO, National Health Authority & Ayushman Bharat), drawing from his extensive experience, noted, 'Retina health is closely tied to the twin silent epidemics of Diabetes and Hypertension in India. Policy change can happen if there is enough evidence. A policy document that explains the scale of the problem, its economic and social impact, existing gaps in the ophthalmology space, and how they can be plugged can help put things in perspective.' Providing an update on current government efforts, Dr. K Madan Gopal (Advisor, Public Health Administration, NHSRC, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare) said, 'We have defined norms through the Indian Public Health Standards for all levels of care. Furthermore, at our 1,70,000 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, we are already equipping our Community Health Officers for the basic screening of eye disorders, including the use of an ophthalmoscope.' Talking about best practices that can be replicated, Dr. Rajni Kant Srivastava , ICMR- Chair for Disease Elimination said, 'Though India is a land of vast disparities, states like Kerala have prioritized eye health. For instance, the Nayan Amritham initiative was a successful and scalable programme in which ASHA workers identified diabetic patients for retinopathy screening using handheld non-mydriatic cameras. The images were sent to a central hub for evaluation and treatment advice. Telemedicine can also help in ensuring care reaches remote areas.' The VIEW Council charter: A roadmap to help India see better The culmination of these deliberations was a comprehensive charter, a clear and actionable roadmap designed to make retinal screening a fundamental right in India and aiming to decrease VTDR to less than 1%. Mission Vision will focus on driving large-scale public awareness about DR, integrate retinal screening with existing NCD screening programmes, design protocols for every patient to undergo retinal screening, build capacity for widespread screening and diagnosis, and ensure advanced treatment options, like intravitreal injections, are made available through programmes like Ayushman Bharat. The VIEW Council's inaugural meeting marks a decisive and powerful step towards safeguarding the vision of millions. With a clear charter, the journey to make retinal health a national priority has officially begun. References -


Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Himachal Pradesh Government to spend Rs 207.50 crore to strengthen diagnostic facilities
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Time of India
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- Time of India
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