The effect of gabapentin and pregabalin administration on memory in clinical and preclinical studies: a meta-analysis and systematic review

Today, gabapentinoids such as Gabapentin (GBP) and pregabalin (PGB) are widely used as painkillers. This may alter the function of the nervous system; hence their results may include a difference in memory and processes that end in memory formation. This study aims to conclude whether gabapentinoids can alter memory or not by reviewing and analyzing clinical and preclinical studies.

A comprehensive search was carried out in databases including PUBMED, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Web of Science. In the included studies, memory was measured as an outcome variable in clinical or preclinical studies.

A total of 21 articles (4 clinical, 17 preclinical) were included in the meta-analysis by STATA Software. The results showed that memory changes under the influence of GBP. Both the administrated dosage and the time of administration are important in the final results and latency time of retention. GBP administration in healthy animals increased latency time, whereas if the administration of GBP took place exactly before training, the latency time increased slightly. Short-term administration of PGB in healthy volunteers is accompanied by transient side effects on the CNS. However, the number and homogeneity of the studies were not such that a meta-analysis could be performed on them.

Clinical and preclinical studies showed that PGB administration did not confirm its improving memory effect. GBP administration in healthy animals increased latency time and improved memory. Although it depended on the time of administration.