Correlation between gabapentin and depression: A study from the NHANES and FAERS databases

Post-marketing surveillance has indicated an association between gabapentin use and an increased risk of depression. However, observational findings on this relationship have been inconsistent. This study aims to investigate the correlation between gabapentin exposure and depression. We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System in the United States from 2011 to 2018. Descriptive statistical analysis, multivariate logistic regression, and linear regression were employed to explore the association between gabapentin use and depression. Our analysis revealed that gabapentin users had a higher risk of depression. In a multivariate logistic regression model, the odds ratio was 1.8 (95% confidence interval: 1.3-2.4; P < .001), indicating a significant association when accounting for demographics and lifestyle factors. Similarly, in a linear regression model, the depression score was significantly higher (β = 4.0; 95% confidence interval: 3.0-5.0; P < .001) among gabapentin users. This risk was notably greater in women and individuals who slept <7 hours. The Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System database included 9951 adverse reactions, with 1165 reports of psychiatric-related adverse events, including depression, constituting 11.71% of the total reports. Gabapentin use is associated with an increased risk of depression. It is crucial for clinicians to monitor patients' mental health closely when prescribing gabapentin and to provide timely intervention if needed.