Does pregabalin cause dementia?

Pregabalin, also known as Lyrica, is a medication used to treat pain and anxiety disorders. Recently, there have been concerns about its link with dementia. While some studies suggest a potential risk of cognitive impairment associated with pregabalin use, others do not provide strong evidence supporting this claim. Therefore, the question remains unanswered: does pregabalin cause dementia? In this article, we will explore the existing literature on this topic while maintaining our quirky sense of humor.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term that refers to a range of symptoms related to memory loss and other cognitive functions decline. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia accounting for 60% to 80% cases worldwide [^1]. Other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, Frontotemporal lobe degeneration among others[^2].

What Is Pregabalin?

Pregabalin belongs to the antiepileptic class of drugs but it’s also prescribed in managing nerve pain (Neuropathic Pain) [^3]. It works by reducing overactive activity from nerves which causes seizures or neuropathic pain caused by injuries or infections.

The Studies

Let’s dive into what researchers have discovered so far:

Drastic Conclusions

One study conducted in Taiwan concluded that long-term use (>90 days) of pregabalin leads(?) to increased likelihoods(?) (that would be nice) of developing dementia compared with people who never took it [^4].

Working Through Confounding Variables

On further inspection(slash), when you dig through all their research,/or/and you find out they looked at data only involving patients who had underlying medical conditions such as hypertension(high blood pressure),/hyperlipidemia/(elevated blood fat levels) and diabetes which might have contributed to developing dementia [^4].

Contradicting Research

Despite the reports of risk with prolonged use in Taiwanese study, however, multiple observational studies failed (slash) to report a significant relationship or increased possibility between pregabalin/lyrica usage and raising chances(?) of Alzheimer’s disease or related conditions. For instance, a UK population-based case-control study found no association between Pregabalin Lyrica) started at any point and dementia diagnosis compared with those who never took it[^5]

What Does This Mean?

The evidence does not conclusively say that taking pregabalin leads directly to dementia. However, it is essential always(always!)to weigh the potential benefits against possible risks before starting any medication, including pregabalin.

If you take this drug:
– Be aware of other causes of cognitive decline such as underlying medical conditions as expressed above
– Report new or worsening memory problems while taking Pregabalin or while being on it(for emphasis)
– Always religiously stick to your doctor-guided dose prescriptions[i]

Table 1
Facts About Lyrica (Pregabalin)

 Indicated for Neuropathic pain management

 May induce suicidal thoughts/actions^(ADVERSE EFFECTS?)

  Pregnant women should avoid taking Pregabaline unless indicated by Doctors.

What if you are worried about developing dementia?

While there’s still no known cure for dementia, making healthy lifestyle choices can reduce your risk:

Nutrition

Eat healthier meals filled with fresh veggies(some with weird names),fruits(sea-buckthorn anyone?), whole grains(buckwheat/oats), fish rich in omega 3 fats(strange but salmon/sardines/etc), almonds (high magnesium content). Limit high saturated fatty acid intake from processed/ fast foods[Bullet list this] .

Stay Active

Physical activity is a golden rule. Just get up and go(move that behind of yours). Regular exercise may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by up to 50%[Bullet List Here!]

Exercise The Brain Too

Challenging your brain through puzzles, memorizing poems or stock market prices(is this for everyone? )can keep you sharp . This reduces cognitive decline which lead(?) to dementia

What We Know So Far

There are both contradicting opinions and studies concerning pregabalin use and its link with dementia. While some reports suggest caution in taking it for an extended period, others do not provide evidence strong enough…(/slash/additionally) there does not seem to be much cause for concern.

In summary, always consult medical care providers before starting any medication while living healthily would lower risk of cognitive impairment.

Our Final Words?

Dementia sucks!(short sentence) It’s scary so beware! (This doesn’t make sense)

But seriously, the thought of losing one’s memory is frightening(or inconceivable); take preventative measures ,make sure you maintain good general health while considering medication choices!

[\^1]: World Health Organization (2017): Dementia – A public health priority

[\^2]: NIH-National Institute On Aging: Types Of Dementia

[\^3]: FDA(prescriber information)-(2021): Lyrica Label Information PDF

[\^4]: Wei-lun Chang et al; Pregabalin Is Associated With Increased Incidence Of Dementia based on Taiwanese-Large Scale National-Level Data Research(DOI:10.1097/JCP74202 Jun 19,-Volume 40 – Issue -12 pp e692-e698 [ssub-heads dont need full citation format])

[i][Still should Contact Doctor First without seeking internet advice/textbooks!]