Investigating the effects of gabapentin on health outcomes in older adults

Gabapentin prescription and health-related outcomes in older adults

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-11001472

This study looks at how the medication gabapentin affects the health of older adults, especially in terms of their thinking and movement, to help understand if it's safe for them to use.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11001472 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines how gabapentin, a medication commonly prescribed for various conditions, affects health outcomes in older adults. By analyzing Medicare claims data and information from the Rush Alzheimer Disease Center, the study aims to identify patterns of gabapentin use, including duration and concurrent medications. The goal is to understand the potential risks associated with gabapentin prescriptions, particularly concerning cognitive and motor functions in this population. This research seeks to fill a critical gap in knowledge regarding the safety of gabapentin in older adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are currently prescribed gabapentin or have a history of its use.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 years old or do not have any history of gabapentin use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety guidelines for gabapentin use in older adults, enhancing their overall health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated concerns regarding the safety of gabapentin use in older populations, suggesting that this study builds on existing knowledge rather than exploring a completely novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.