Emerging Clinical Roles of Gabapentin and Adverse Effects, Including Weight Gain, Obesity, Depression, Suicidal Thoughts and Increased Risk of Opioid-Related Overdose and Respiratory Depression: A Narrative Review.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Gabapentin, introduced in the 1990s as an anticonvulsant and anti-epileptic drug, has become a cornerstone treatment for various neurological and pain-related conditions. Its approved uses include seizure disorders, postherpetic neuralgia, and restless leg syndrome, while off-label applications commonly include diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and insomnia. The efficacy of gabapentin stems from its ability to modulate voltage-gated calcium channels, reducing excitatory neurotransmitter release in the central nervous system. However, its pharmacological versatility is accompanied by significant risks, including weight gain and combination additive and/or synergistic opioid-related respiratory depression.

RECENT FINDINGS: Weight gain, affecting up to 25% of patients, is primarily attributed to secondary effects such as altered gastrointestinal function and peripheral edema. This adverse effect can negatively impact treatment adherence, especially in patients with chronic conditions requiring long-term therapy. Patients with preexisting metabolic disorders face heightened risks, necessitating strategies like dietary counseling and tailored treatment adjustments to mitigate weight gain. In multimodal pain management, gabapentin mediated additive and/or synergistic effects with opioids enable reduced opioid doses but increase the risk of respiratory depression and overdose. These dose-dependent interactions amplify sedative effects, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly. To optimize therapeutic benefits while minimizing risks, healthcare providers must adopt individualized treatment plans, carefully adjust dosages, and educate patients. Further research is essential to better understand mechanisms of action, improve safety profiles, and develop prescribing practices that balance efficacy with reduced adverse outcomes.