Is Your Pain Medication Putting You at Risk? 4 Important Things to Know About the Gabapentin Dementia Lawsuits

Research studies found a potential link between the use of gabapentin and increased risk of developing dementia: growing concerns have led to lawsuits filed across the country.

Gabapentin, commonly recognized by its brand name Neurontin®, is a drug originally approved by the FDA for shingles-related nerve pain and epileptic seizures. Its usage has expanded widely, however, for "off-label" uses. Today, gabapentin is prescribed to millions across the country to treat chronic back pain, neck pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders.

Yet, certain risks linked to this drug are coming to light. A study conducted by the journal Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine suggests a direct correlation between gabapentin and the increased risk for dementia and mild cognitive impairments when used for pain other than nerve pain or seizures. Many patients are filing lawsuits against gabapentin manufacturers, including Pfizer, claiming they were not warned of these risks. Below is important information to understand if you are considering taking legal action.

1. Increased risks of dementia suggested in multiple research studies

   In the study published in the medical journal Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, researchers discovered that patients prescribed gabapentin six or more times for chronic pain suffered a higher incidence of dementia and mild cognitive impairment. Dementia risk was doubled in adults ages 18-64 compared to those who did not take gabapentin, and mild cognitive impairment risk tripled for this subset of patients, the study found. A supporting study from Case Western University found that patients taking gabapentin for chronic low back pain were at a 29% increased risk of developing dementia and a shocking 85% increased risk of mild cognitive impairment within a ten-year window of taking the drug.

   The drug impacts the way neurotransmitters communicate within the brain, which medical experts believe disrupts memory processing. Even though off-label use is common, patients have not been made aware of the potential neurological effects linked to the medication. With an increase in use of the drug in recent years, thousands of patients may be at risk for early-onset dementia.

2. Lawsuits are claiming Pfizer failed to warn consumers

   Pharmaceutical manufacturers are required by law to warn the public about severe side effects of their drugs. At the center of many of these lawsuits are allegations that Pfizer marketed the drug for “off-label” uses, such as chronic back pain, migraines, and even bipolar disorder, yet failed to properly warn consumers and physicians about the risks for cognitive decline. The lawsuits claim that Pfizer knew or should have known about these risks due to multiple studies linking gabapentin use to cognitive impairment and memory decline, including dementia.

3. The eligibility requirements to file a gabapentin lawsuit

   You may qualify to file a gabapentin lawsuit against the drug manufacturer, Pfizer, if:

   • You or a loved one were prescribed gabapentin (six) 6 or more times between 2000 and 2024.
   • Your prescriptions were for any purpose other than: (a) nerve pain; or (b) seizures.
   • You were diagnosed by a neurologist or other specialist with early-onset dementia before the age of 65.
   • You or a loved one does not have a prior history of Traumatic Brain Injury or schizophrenia and has not tested positive for genetic markers/mutations associated with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

4. Potential next steps for affected families and consumers

   If you or a loved was affected by the repeated use of gabapentin, you may be eligible for compensation. A mass tort litigation lawyer with experience in these kinds of pharmaceutical cases may help you navigate the legal process. Grant & Eisenhofer is investigating these cases and may help you secure the financial resources you deserve for the damages you endured, emotionally and cognitively.