A large UK study has confirmed that patients prescribed gabapentinoids, such as gabapentin or pregabalin, face a significantly higher risk of drug poisoning, particularly in the initial weeks of treatment. The research, published in the journal Family Medicine and Community Health in 2025, analyzed data from over 17,000 primary care patients.
The findings indicate the risk of drug poisoning was highest in the first 30 days after starting a gabapentinoid prescription. The study's authors noted this elevated risk was especially pronounced for patients who were concurrently prescribed benzodiazepines or opioids, highlighting a dangerous interaction.
Gabapentinoids are commonly prescribed for neuropathic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy. The study underscores the importance of careful patient monitoring, especially at the start of therapy and when these drugs are combined with other central nervous system depressants. Researchers advocate for updated clinical guidelines to mitigate these early risks.
