Latest news with #Neurontin
Yahoo
18-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Dementia Linked With Treatment For Chronic Lower Back Pain
A drug widely used to treat nerve pain and epilepsy has been linked with an increase in cases of dementia and mild cognitive impairment. A team from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Arizona State University, and the MetroHealth Medical Center in the US crunched the numbers on 26,416 records of patients with chronic lower back pain, looking at the relationship between prescriptions for the anticonvulsant gabapentin and dementia diagnoses. Having six or more gabapentin prescriptions was linked to a significant increase in dementia risk and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), the data showed: those in that group were 29 percent and 85 percent more likely to be diagnosed with dementia and MCI respectively, within 10 years. Related: Massive Study Links 15 Factors to Early Dementia Risk The increase was higher among patients aged between 35 and 49, and also rose with the number of prescriptions given, the researchers found. Though the study can't establish a cause for the increase, physicians are encouraged to keep a close eye on patients taking the drug. "Gabapentin prescription in adults with chronic low back pain is associated with increased risk of dementia and cognitive impairment, particularly in non-elderly adults," write the researchers in their published paper. "Physicians should monitor cognitive outcomes in patients prescribed gabapentin." Sold under brand names including Neurontin, gabapentin has proved to be less addictive than opioids, making it more likely to be prescribed in recent years. The drug does have some known side effects though, including extreme moods and allergic reactions. This isn't the first time researchers have examined associations between gabapentin and dementia, but previous studies haven't agreed on whether or not concerns are warranted. One of the study's strengths is the relatively large sample size of its participants, though the sample largely consisted of just one group of people – those with chronic lower back pain. A study published in 1997 found no link between gabapentin and cognitive decline in people with epilepsy, so it's important to continue to widen the data set. These conflicting results could suggest unique mechanisms among patients with the type of backpain that leads to a gabapentin prescription that also increases their risk of dementia, like a certain type of location of inflammation. But gabapentin works by dampening some of the brain's key communication channels, in order to provide relief from pain or make seizures less likely. So the worry is that it could also be damaging links between neurons in ways that might lead to dementia – a concern backed up by this latest study. Dementia is a challenging condition to study with so many potential factors to account for, but each study gets us closer to the full picture of how the brain breaks down over time. "We hope the current study promotes further research to delineate whether gabapentin plays a causal role in the development of dementia and the underlying mechanisms of this relationship," write the researchers. The research has been published in Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine. Related News 8 Babies Born in UK Using Radical 'Three Parent' IVF Technique These 4 Simple Exercises Could Help Break Your Insomnia Energy Drinks Seen Fuelling Cancer, But There's a Strange Catch Solve the daily Crossword
Daily Mail
16-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Scientists warn 50 cent pain pill used by millions of Americans is tied to shocking surge in dementia risk
Millions taking a common painkiller could be unwittingly raising their risk of suffering from dementia and memory problems. That's the warning from researchers in Ohio, who tracked people prescribed gabapentin - often sold under the brand name Neurontin - for more than a decade after their first dose. Your browser does not support iframes.
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Gabapentin Market Size to Hit USD 3.55 Billion by 2032, Driven by Rising Cases of Epilepsy, Neuropathic Pain, and Off-Label Use
U.S. Gabapentin Market Growth is Fueled by High Chronic Pain Prevalence and Broad Generic Adoption. Austin, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to SNS Insider, the global Gabapentin market was USD 2.33 billion in 2023, is projected to reach USD 3.55 billion by 2032, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.75% during the forecast period. The growth is primarily driven by increasing cases of epilepsy, post-herpetic neuralgia, and neuropathic pain—especially within aging populations—alongside expanded off-label use for conditions such as fibromyalgia, anxiety, and a Sample Report of Gabapentin Market@ The U.S. market, valued at USD 0.62 billion in 2023, is expected to grow to USD 0.94 billion by 2032 at a CAGR of 4.78%. Factors contributing to this growth include the high prevalence of chronic pain, widespread adoption of generic alternatives, and increasing prescription rates among mental health professionals. The CDC reports that over 20% of U.S. adults experience chronic pain, underlining the need for non-opioid treatment options like gabapentin. Additionally, rising epilepsy rates reported by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke further reinforce gabapentin's clinical relevance. Segment Analysis By Dosage Form: Capsule Dominate Market With a 55.27% market share in 2023, the capsule segment dominated the global gabapentin market because of its convenience, broad prescription base, and preferred dose form in long-term neurological treatment. Patients with persistent neurological diseases might find capsules appealing since they have a higher shelf life and are easy to swallow. Their consistency during travel and capacity to hide the flavor of active components further improve patient adherence. Healthcare professionals choosing capsules over other forms because of their consistent bioavailability helps the segment even more. By Type: The Generic segment dominated the market With and held 89.56% share of the Gabapentin Market in 2023, the generic segment, because of its cost-effectiveness and same therapeutic benefits as branded equivalents like Neurontin, the generic form of gabapentin is being used. Most patents on branded gabapentin formulations have expired, so market rivalry among generic medicine producers has been more intense, resulting in lower pricing and better accessibility. By Application: Epilepsy Segment Maintains Highest Share With a 50.26% market share in 2023, the epilepsy segment dominated the gabapentin market in terms of application. Regulatory agencies such as the European Medicines Agency and the U.S. FDA have approved gabapentin's effectiveness in controlling partial seizures after adequately recorded data. Often recommended as an additional therapy for patients not responding to monotherapy, the demand for efficient antiepileptic medications such as gabapentin is still driven by the rising worldwide frequency of epilepsy, estimated by the WHO to impact over 50 million individuals. By Distribution Channel: Hospital pharmacies dominated the market. Hospital pharmacies accounted for 48.59% of the total gabapentin market revenue in 2023. Particularly for chronic neurological and pain-related disorders, the great volume of gabapentin prescriptions written during inpatient and outpatient visits accounts for this supremacy. For newly diagnosed epilepsy or neuralgia sufferers, hospitals also provide the primary point of care, thereby depending more on institutional pharmacy systems. Hospitals are looking to gabapentin as a preferable non-opioid alternative for post-surgical and neuropathic pain, as tighter control of opioid prescriptions calls for. Need Any Customization Research on Gabapentin Market, Enquire Now@ Regional Analysis North America is leading the Gabapentin Market in 2023, with 36.62% of the global market share. High diagnosis rates, modern healthcare infrastructure, and general acceptance of generic drugs help to explain this supremacy. Major pharmaceutical companies and good reimbursement policies help to drive large prescription volumes between general and specialty care physicians even more. Demand in the area also stems from the growing frequency of disorders, including spinal injuries and diabetic neuropathy. Asia Pacific is likely to see a notable increase throughout the forecast period, driven by a rise in epilepsy and diabetes-related neuropathy, expanding healthcare coverage, and government initiatives aiming at improving access to necessary pharmaceuticals. Major Players Analysis Listed in this Report are: Zydus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Pfizer Inc. GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS LTD. Cipla B.P. Pharma Aurobindo Pharma Assertio Holdings, Inc. Ascend Laboratories LLC Arbor Pharmaceuticals, LLC (Azurity Pharmaceuticals, Inc.) Apotex Inc. Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC. Recent advancements Teva Pharmaceuticals debuted an extended-release form of gabapentin in the United States for once-daily dosing in November 2023, therefore enhancing compliance among those suffering from chronic pain. Further bolstering the generic supply chain was U.S. FDA clearance of Dr. Reddy's Laboratories' generic gabapentin 300 mg and 600 mg capsules in January 2024. Pfizer Inc. revealed in March 2024 a joint research project including academic institutions to investigate gabapentin's potential in controlling chemotherapy-induced neuropathy. Buy a Single-User PDF of Gabapentin Market Analysis & Outlook Report 2024-2032@ About Us: SNS Insider is one of the leading market research and consulting agencies that dominates the market research industry globally. Our company's aim is to give clients the knowledge they require in order to function in changing circumstances. In order to give you current, accurate market data, consumer insights, and opinions so that you can make decisions with confidence, we employ a variety of techniques, including surveys, video talks, and focus groups around the world. CONTACT: Contact Us: Jagney Dave - Vice President of Client Engagement Phone: +1-315 636 4242 (US) | +44- 20 3290 5010 (UK)Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Time Business News
08-05-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Understanding Gabapentin: High Risks and Safer Alternatives for Treatment
Introduction Once hailed as a revolutionary anticonvulsant and nerve pain medication, Gabapentin has woven itself deeply into the fabric of contemporary medical treatment. Originally celebrated for its efficacy and minimal abuse potential, its reputation has begun to tarnish under the weight of emerging data and rising misuse. As Gabapentin prescriptions skyrocket, the darker facets of its pharmacological profile demand serious consideration. This article sheds light on the potential hazards associated with Gabapentin and explores viable, safer alternatives for those in need of treatment. Originally developed to treat nerve pain and seizures, gabapentin is increasingly being misused for its psychoactive effects. While it is not classified as a controlled substance in many places, reports of off-label use and recreational consumption are rising. Can gabapentin get you high? Some users report feelings of relaxation, mild euphoria, or sedation, especially at high doses or when combined with other substances. However, these effects are unpredictable and may come with serious risks, including dizziness, impaired coordination, and dependence. Medical professionals caution against misuse, emphasizing that gabapentin should be taken only as prescribed for legitimate health conditions. What Is Gabapentin? Gabapentin, also known by the brand name Neurontin, was initially approved by the FDA for managing epilepsy and postherpetic neuralgia. It operates by modulating calcium channels in the nervous system, thereby dulling overactive neuronal firing. Although not a controlled substance at the federal level, its off-label usage has ballooned over the past decade. Today, clinicians prescribe Gabapentin for a kaleidoscope of conditions including fibromyalgia, anxiety, restless leg syndrome, and even alcohol withdrawal. Its perceived low addiction risk has led to liberal prescribing practices. However, such ubiquity has inadvertently set the stage for misuse and dependency in both clinical and non-clinical populations. The Rising Concerns Around Gabapentin Despite its benign reputation, Gabapentin is quietly becoming a drug of concern. Reports of misuse have surged, particularly among individuals with a history of substance use disorder. Its sedative properties can mimic the calming effects of benzodiazepines, making it an attractive target for recreational users. One of the more insidious elements of Gabapentin is how its dangers can remain cloaked under the guise of safety. Unlike opioids, it doesn't carry an immediate risk of respiratory depression when used alone. But when combined with other central nervous system depressants, the risk multiplies. The illusion of harmlessness has contributed to widespread overuse and under-regulation. Adverse Effects and Health Risks Gabapentin's side effects extend far beyond the mild dizziness and fatigue listed on patient handouts. Long-term use has been linked to cognitive dulling, memory loss, and severe mood alterations, including suicidal ideation. Some patients experience visual disturbances, gastrointestinal distress, or peripheral edema that can persist even after discontinuation. Neurologically, the drug can induce dependence through neuroadaptive changes. Withdrawal symptoms mirror those of more traditionally addictive substances: agitation, nausea, insomnia, and even seizures in extreme cases. What was once seen as a safe fallback for chronic pain patients now presents a complex clinical challenge. Gabapentin and Polysubstance Abuse The intersection of Gabapentin with other substances presents a particularly treacherous territory. When combined with opioids, the drug acts synergistically to enhance euphoria—a dangerous cocktail that increases the risk of overdose. Its ability to potentiate other drugs has led to its presence in countless toxicology screens tied to fatal outcomes. Clinical observations suggest that users often seek Gabapentin not in isolation, but as a supplement to existing addictions. Emergency rooms have reported an uptick in presentations involving Gabapentin as a secondary agent, often laced into a broader pattern of polysubstance use. These combinations complicate treatment protocols and blur diagnostic clarity. Regulatory Scrutiny and Legal Status In response to growing concerns, several states have moved to reclassify Gabapentin as a Schedule V controlled substance. Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia have already enacted such changes, making it subject to monitoring under prescription drug programs. This reflects a shift in perception, from benign pain reliever to a drug with significant misuse potential. Internationally, the United Kingdom designated Gabapentin as a Class C controlled drug in 2019. Regulatory bodies are slowly awakening to its role in the evolving landscape of pharmaceutical misuse. Yet, many regions lag behind in oversight, leaving practitioners and patients without consistent guidance. Safer Alternatives to Gabapentin Fortunately, a range of safer treatment modalities exists. Pregabalin (Lyrica), while chemically similar to Gabapentin, has a more predictable absorption profile and may offer a safer pharmacokinetic profile when tightly monitored. For neuropathic pain, tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) have demonstrated efficacy with a lower risk of misuse. Outside the pharmacological realm, integrative therapies offer promising avenues. Acupuncture, biofeedback, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-based stress reduction have shown potential in treating chronic pain and anxiety-related disorders. These modalities carry no risk of dependency and empower patients to engage actively in their recovery. For individuals seeking a quicker transition through the withdrawal phase, specialized treatment options can make a significant difference. One such option is a rapid detox center , which offers medically supervised detoxification designed to speed up the process of eliminating substances from the body. These centers use anesthesia-assisted methods to help patients bypass the worst of withdrawal symptoms, allowing them to begin recovery with less discomfort. While not suitable for everyone, this approach can be a valuable choice for those needing urgent intervention. With proper medical oversight, rapid detox may offer a safer and more efficient start to sobriety. Conclusion Gabapentin's widespread use belies a complex and concerning reality. While it remains an important tool in certain clinical scenarios, its risks cannot be ignored. Health professionals must exercise judicious prescribing, and patients deserve full transparency about the potential dangers. As we re-examine Gabapentin's role in modern medicine, prioritizing safer alternatives and integrative approaches is not just advisable—it is imperative. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
04-05-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Navigating Gabapentin Withdrawal: Symptoms, Timeline, and Treatment
Introduction Gabapentin, widely prescribed for seizures, neuropathic pain, and off-label uses such as anxiety, has become increasingly recognized not just for its therapeutic effects but also for its potential to cause dependence. As prescriptions rise, so do reports of challenging withdrawal experiences. For individuals seeking to taper off this medication, understanding the symptoms, timeline, and treatment avenues is essential to a safe and effective recovery process. Gabapentin is a prescription medication primarily used to treat nerve pain and seizures, but it has also gained attention for non-medical use. Some individuals may misuse it in hopes of experiencing euphoria or sedation. Can Gabapentin get you high? While it is not typically classified as a recreational drug, high doses may produce feelings of relaxation or altered perception in some users, especially when combined with other substances. However, misuse can lead to unwanted side effects like dizziness, confusion, and dependency. It's important to use gabapentin only as prescribed to avoid potential health risks. Understanding Gabapentin and Its Uses What is Gabapentin? Gabapentin, also marketed under the brand name Neurontin, is a synthetic analog of the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). Despite its structural similarity, it does not bind directly to GABA receptors. Instead, it modulates calcium channels in the central nervous system, thereby dampening excessive neuronal excitability. Medical Conditions it Treats Initially approved for epilepsy, gabapentin is now commonly used to alleviate nerve pain associated with shingles, diabetic neuropathy, and fibromyalgia. Off-label, it is often employed to treat anxiety disorders, restless leg syndrome, and even insomnia. This broad spectrum of applications has led to its proliferation in both primary care and psychiatric settings. Why Gabapentin Withdrawal Occurs Dependence and Neurological Adaptation Gabapentin alters neural activity in a way that, over time, can lead to physical dependence. The brain, conditioned by the drug's dampening effect on excitatory signals, compensates by adjusting neurotransmitter levels. When gabapentin use is suddenly reduced or halted, this imbalance manifests as withdrawal. Risk Factors for Withdrawal Higher doses, prolonged use, and concurrent use of other CNS depressants such as opioids or benzodiazepines amplify the likelihood of withdrawal. Individuals with a history of substance use disorder are especially vulnerable. Additionally, abrupt cessation rather than a gradual taper significantly increases withdrawal severity. Recognizing the Symptoms of Gabapentin Withdrawal Physical Symptoms The physical effects can be distressing. These often include sweating, nausea, headaches, dizziness, tremors, and palpitations. Some report flu-like symptoms, such as chills, body aches, and fatigue, mimicking opioid withdrawal. Psychological and Neurological Effects More insidious are the neuropsychological symptoms. Heightened anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and even paranoia can occur. In some cases, individuals experience seizures, particularly if gabapentin was initially prescribed for epilepsy. Cognitive fog and mood instability are also common during the withdrawal period. The Timeline of Gabapentin Withdrawal Acute Phase Withdrawal typically begins within 12 to 48 hours after the last dose. The acute phase lasts approximately 3 to 7 days and is marked by the most intense symptoms—sleeplessness, anxiety, agitation, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Subacute and Prolonged Symptoms Though many physical symptoms subside within a week, some effects may linger. Mood disturbances, insomnia, and cognitive difficulties can persist for several weeks. In rare cases, individuals report a protracted withdrawal syndrome lasting several months, especially in those with long-term or high-dose use. Effective Treatment Options for Withdrawal Medical Detox and Tapering Strategies The safest way to cease gabapentin use is under medical supervision. Tapering—gradually reducing the dose over weeks or months—helps mitigate the shock to the nervous system. Physicians may employ adjunct medications such as clonidine or propranolol to address specific symptoms like anxiety or hypertension. Supportive Therapies and Holistic Approaches Behavioral therapies, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can assist in managing psychological symptoms. Nutritional support, hydration, and sleep hygiene also play pivotal roles. Alternative treatments, including acupuncture and mindfulness-based interventions, may provide additional relief during recovery. Preventing Gabapentin Misuse and Relapse Monitoring Prescriptions Clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing gabapentin, particularly to individuals with a history of substance misuse. Prescription monitoring programs (PMPs) can help track usage patterns and flag potential abuse. Education and Support Networks Patient education is vital. Understanding the risks of long-term use and the importance of adherence to tapering schedules can reduce misuse. Support groups, both in-person and online, offer encouragement, accountability, and shared wisdom from others navigating similar challenges. Overcoming addiction requires not only determination but also the right medical support to ease withdrawal symptoms and promote healing. For individuals seeking a quicker path to sobriety, rapid medical detox offers a controlled and supervised method to cleanse the body of harmful substances. Unlike traditional detox programs, this approach accelerates the process using medications and close monitoring, often within a hospital or clinical setting. It's designed for those who need immediate relief from the physical effects of addiction. While not suitable for everyone, this method can be the first crucial step toward a stable and long-term recovery. Conclusion Gabapentin withdrawal is a complex and often underestimated process. While the medication serves a legitimate and valuable purpose for many, its potential for dependence necessitates cautious use and informed discontinuation strategies. With proper guidance, individualized treatment, and robust support, individuals can successfully navigate the withdrawal process and restore neurochemical equilibrium. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
