The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has alerted healthcare professionals and the public to the increased risk of drug poisoning associated with the concurrent use of gabapentinoids and certain other medicines.
The warning is contained in NAFDAC Public Alert No. 039/2026, following emerging evidence on the risks associated with combining gabapentinoids, particularly gabapentin and pregabalin, with medicines such as opioids and benzodiazepines.
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According to the Agency, a study by researchers at University College London found that among patients taking gabapentinoids, concurrent use of benzodiazepines was associated with approximately a two-fold increase in the risk of hospitalisation for drug poisoning.
The study also found that concurrent use of gabapentinoids and opioids increased the risk of drug poisoning by about 30 per cent.
NAFDAC explained that gabapentinoids are commonly prescribed for conditions including neuropathic pain, epilepsy and anxiety disorders, and are increasingly being used as alternatives to opioids for pain management.
The Agency noted that the risk of adverse effects may be higher among elderly patients, people with respiratory disorders and those taking opioids, benzodiazepines or other central nervous system depressants.
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People with a history of substance abuse may also face increased risk.
NAFDAC said possible adverse effects include excessive drowsiness, respiratory depression, impaired consciousness and drug poisoning.
The Agency therefore advised members of the public to use gabapentin and pregabalin strictly as prescribed by qualified healthcare professionals and to disclose all medicines they are taking to their healthcare providers.
It also cautioned against self-medication and the unauthorised combination of medicines.
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NAFDAC urged anyone experiencing unusual drowsiness, difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness while taking the medicines to seek immediate medical attention.
Healthcare professionals and consumers were also encouraged to report suspected cases involving the sale of substandard or falsified medicines and medical devices to the nearest NAFDAC office, through its toll-free number 0800-162-3322 or by email to sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.