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Several years ago, a review of the FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) revealed some disconcerting data about commonly prescribed drugs for nerve pain (ISMP QuarterWatch Reports (March 27, 2019). This independent publication provided insights on emerging drug risks based on information submitted to the Food and Drug Administration. Doctors primarily prescribe GABA agonists (aka gabapentinoids) like gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica) for neuropathic (nerve) pain. They may also prescribe Lyrica to treat fibromyalgia. Perhaps unexpectedly, the ISMP report raised safety concerns about gabapentin and pregabalin that deserve some careful consideration by physicians, patients and FDA safety officers.
An Additional Gabapentin Scandal?
A further careful analysis in the Journal of Clinical Epidemiology (Oct. 21, 2023) reveals that important adverse reactions detected in six clinical trials of gabapentin were not included in the early published reports.
The authors introduce their research this way:
“In 1993, gabapentin (Neurontin) was approved to treat epilepsy by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To increase sales, gabapentin’s manufacturer encouraged ‘off label’ prescribing by publishing favorable clinical trial results in medical journals. Those articles over-estimated gabapentin’s benefits and underestimated its harms. Pfizer pleaded guilty to criminal and civil charges for illegal marketing, and it settled claims of defrauding patients and benefit providers.
“Today, gabapentin continues to be prescribed widely for multiple conditions. Prescribing might be influenced by systematic reviews and guidance based on incomplete evidence.”
These researchers analyzed data from six randomized clinical trials of gabapentin. After all, RCTs are supposed to be the “gold standard” for drug studies. The authors of this new overview point out that the results and summaries failed to include many side effects. This had an impact on subsequent reviews of gabapentin.
The investigation revealed that:
“Many of the harms observed in these trials have not been included in systematic reviews that are based on published reports…”
The bottom line seems to be that physicians and patients may not be aware of some of the important early concerns about gabapentin and pregabalin.
Gabapentin and Pregabalin and the Brain:
No doubt you have heard of the neurotransmitter called serotonin. One of the most widely prescribed antidepressants, fluoxetine (Prozac), became a household name because it was a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI).
You have probably read about dopamine. It has been described as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. Think of it as the reward neurochemical. If you experience something wonderful, the pleasurable feelings are probably impacted by dopamine.
Have you ever heard of a neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)? We didn’t think so. Whereas most neurotransmitters stimulate neurons, GABA is more like a brake on the brain. Neuroscientists refer to this as an inhibitory action. Not surprisingly, drugs that “calm” the brain often attach themselves to GABA receptors and/or enhance the activity of GABA. Think booze, barbiturates, benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium) or even sleeping pills like zolpidem (Ambien).
Gabapentin and pregabalin (Lyrica) are considered GABA analogs or gabapentinoids. In addition to being prescribed for nerve pain, they sometimes are used to treat “partial onset seizures.” You get the picture: brain brakes for epilepsy or sensations of pain.
Why Are GABA Drug Prescriptions Skyrocketing?
Prescriptions for these powerful brain modulating meds are way up.
An article in JAMA Internal Medicine (Feb. 2018) notes that:
“The use of gabapentinoids more than tripled between 2002 and 2015.”
According to our calculations, over 12 million Americans are now taking either gabapentin or pregabalin. That represents nearly 60 million prescriptions annually!
We suspect that many physicians have become worried about prescribing opioids to patients suffering from chronic pain. They have either reduced the dose of opioids and added a drug like gabapentin or substituted a GABA analog entirely for the more powerful pain relievers. That’s not just our opinion.
An article published in the New England Journal of Medicine (Aug. 3, 2017) stated:
“We believe, however, that gabapentinoids are being prescribed excessively — partly in response to the opioid epidemic…Patients who are in pain deserve empathy, understanding, time, and attention. We believe some of them may benefit from a therapeutic trial of gabapentin or pregabalin for off-label indications, and we support robust efforts to limit opioid prescribing. Nevertheless, clinicians shouldn’t assume that gabapentinoids are an effective approach for most pain syndromes or a routinely appropriate substitute for opioids.”
The report from the March 27, 2019 ISMP QuarterWatch reveals:
“Gabapentin is so widely used that it is reported taken by more adults than any other psychoactive drug except the opioid combination acetaminophen/hydrocodone (Vicodin). It is so widely abused that a study of overdose deaths showed 32% had included it in a cocktail of lethal drugs that mostly included potent opioids.”
You can read more about the rise in gabapentin and pregabalin prescriptions at this link.
Are Doctors Overprescribing Gabapentin and Pregabalin (Lyrica) for Pain?
A Reader Wonders Whether Gabapentin is Worth the Risk:
Q. My doctor prescribed gabapentin to treat nerve pain. I’m not sure about taking it because I have read it increases the risk for dementia. Also, it may leave residual effects after stopping. I am not epileptic. Should I be concerned?
A. When older people start taking the anticonvulsant gabapentin, they are more likely to fall (Frontiers in Pharmacology, Nov. 25, 2022). That alone is worrisome. Furthermore, evidence shows that people taking gabapentin are significantly more likely to develop dementia than those not using it (Frontiers in Pharmacology, May 30, 2023). If you have other options to treat your nerve pain, you might want to explore them further.
A Reader Challenges This Research!
We recently received this message from a reader of our nationally syndicated newspaper column:
Q. Doctors are increasingly prescribing gabapentin to treat nerve pain. My wife recently showed me a column you had written on a link between gabapentin and dementia. She has taken this drug for neuropathy resulting from chemotherapy for breast cancer, so she was understandably alarmed.
As a retired professor, I searched the medical literature. After I found the article you cited from Frontiers of Pharmacology, I located another one with better methodology (Journal of Affective Disorders, Aug. 1, 2024).
The researchers found no significant difference in the risk of dementia between people who had taken a lot of gabapentin and those who’d had only a little. Isn’t that a better way to determine if this is a real problem?
A. Your sleuthing has revealed a classic challenge in interpreting research. The original study we cited (Frontiers in Pharmacology, May 30, 2023) analyzed data from more than 200,000 patients in Taiwan.
The authors concluded:
“Patients treated with gabapentin or pregabalin had an increased risk of dementia.”
The evaluation you found covered the same patient population but reached a completely different conclusion. As you noted, the authors determined:
“Long-term Gabapentin therapy for chronic pain is not associated with a differential risk of dementia across dosage levels, irrespective of age or gender.”
It’s hardly surprising that people experience whiplash when research is contradictory. That is the nature of science, however. It can take time to discover what is really going on.
Why Are There Dependency Concerns About Gabapentin and Pregabalin?
An analysis from the ISMP QuarterWatch reveals some disconcerting data:
• “Risky polypharmacy. Nearly one-half of GABA analog patients were also taking 10 or more other drugs, increasing the risk of interactions, overdose, or inhibiting effects on other needed drugs.
• “CNS depression and overdose. 35% were also sustained users of opioids; another 18% were regularly taking an additional drug that activated GABA receptors such as alprazolam (Xanax) and zolpidem (Ambien).
• “Untested psychiatric combinations. 44% of GABA analog drug patients were also in sustained use of various antidepressant drugs. This suggests that doctors observing poor responses to antidepressant drugs were adding GABA analog drugs in untested and unapproved combination therapy.”
Are There Concerns About Gabapentin and Pregabalin Dependence?
The QuarterWatch also notes that:
• “Withdrawal symptoms/dependence. More than 1,200 reports described withdrawal syndromes, drug abuse, intentional misuse, or overdose.
• Mental impairment. Patients complained of memory loss, memory impairment, confusion, dizziness, and falls.”
We suspect that many health professionals are unaware of concerns about gabapentin and pregabalin dependence. In many cases, they assume that patients could discontinue such drugs at any time without problems. That is not what we are hearing from visitors to this website.
Ivy was not told she would need to wean herself off gabapentin slowly:
“I have taken 3600mg/day of Neurontin (gabapentin) for about 15 years for small and large fiber neuropathy and other neuropathic pain all caused by Lyme disease. I never had any side effects…in fact, I tell people gabapentin has no side effects!
“The only problem I had was when a doctor told me to stop taking it and to take GABA supplements instead because they are the same thing. They are not. I had withdrawal symptoms that made me feel like I was going insane. I cried all the time, etc. I’m surprised I didn’t have seizures. I didn’t realize why it was happening but went back on the gabapentin…and they went away.”
Jay wasn’t warned about a discontinuation syndrome:
“I was prescribed gabapentin after lower back surgery. Not sure it helped with the nerve pain. I developed a canker sore on my lip after a couple weeks. I also experienced night sweats (and unusual body odor).
“The doctor didn’t say anything about side effects upon stopping gabapentin suddenly. I found out what they were when I ran out and didn’t refill–anxiety, insomnia, feeling ‘crazy.’ It’s been 5 days and I finally got a decent night’s sleep. Even with the withdrawal symptoms I’m not going back on gabapentin!”
Judy had problems with Lyrica (pregabalin):
“I am currently tapering Lyrica from 225 mg daily to 200 mg. It has been almost a month. I have been on Lyrica for 15 months. I suffer from severe chest and spinal pain due to a rare condition. The nerve pain has returned with a vengeance, but I am determined to taper to 150 mg daily. The brain fog, lack of concentration, drowsiness, etc. was ruining my life. Withdrawal has been a nightmare.”
Side Effects of GABA Analogs:
Gabapentin can cause symptoms of depression, drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, brain fog, balance problems and visual difficulties. Patients should be warned about the possibility of suicidal thoughts. If such occur, people should contact the prescriber immediately.
Pregabalin can also lead to cognitive difficulties, unsteadiness and dizziness. Some people develop coordination problems, fatigue, confusion, blurred vision, fluid buildup (edema) and dry mouth. If depression or suicidal thoughts occur, the prescribing physician should be notified immediately!
You can learn more about the side effects of GABA analogs at this link. There are over 800 comments so you can read about the experiences of many other patients.
Surprising Gabapentin Side Effects
Some People Get Relief from Nerve Pain:
We do not want to paint a grim picture about gabapentinoids. We hear from many people that concerns about gabapentin and pregabalin are overblown and that such drugs do help relieve nerve pain. Here are just a few examples:
Gin in Granby, Connecticut, reports positive results:
“Tingling and numbness are relieved with gabapentin. I am not depressed taking it. Rather I am thrilled to not have to experience neuropathy. I don’t have any side effects to speak of. If I do, they are minimal.”
Janet in Virginia is also a fan of gabapentin:
“It took two years to finally get a diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy in my feet that has come up my legs. I’ve been on Neurontin (now gabapentin) for over 25 years. That medicine has helped me live!
“Early mornings are bad until 8:30 when the pills kick in. I was also put on tramadol. These meds have allowed me to get around, even drive some. Yes, I am sleepy and off balance but these side effects are worth it.”
Lyn reports that gabapentin helps her:
“I have very debilitating polyneuropathy. I have been on gabapentin for about 8 years. It does help with the pain in my feet. I have bad loss of balance, fuzzy head and have fallen twice. People with neuropathy will take and do anything to relieve the jabbing, burning pains. Gabapentin is the only help I have found. I have tried everything, except Marijuana.”
Final Concerns About Gabapentin and Pregabalin:
We suspect that there is a lot of off-label prescribing of gabapentin. That may stem in part from the aggressive marketing of Neurontin for which the company was fined a huge amount of money. You can learn about this sad saga in the history of gabapentin at this link:
Gabapentin for Pain Drove Patient to Brink of Suicide
We agree with the conclusions of Quarter Watch:
“Substantial action is needed to reduce inappropriate use of GABA analog drugs… Further, treatment guidelines are needed to discourage incidental off-label use without careful monitoring and patient assessment. Other risks—notably possible harmful effects of long-term use—have not been adequately assessed in drugs almost exclusively tested in short-term trials. With the exception of opioid misuse, it would be hard to find a drug safety issue today affecting so many million adults where neither risks nor benefits have been adequately established.”
Reader Response, Please:
Share your own experience or concerns about gabapentin or pregabalin in the comment section below.
Kathryn
I had Guillain Barre Syndrome in 2021. Thankfully, the only lasting sequela is lower leg neuropathy. (I’m not diabetic.) The nerve zaps were unbelievably uncomfortable, especially at night, which kept me from sleeping.
The neurologist who specialized in GBS and similar problems prescribed gabapentin. She said I could self-titrate up to 3600 mg/day. While I was rather resistant to start yet another drug, I needed to get a better night’s sleep.
I started with a 300 mg capsule at night before bed, and 1 in the morning. I ended up adding one capsule more at night, making a total of 900 mg/day. That seems to work for me.
I occasionally have word-finding problems and work on improving my balance but at least I can sleep at night! Tradeoffs.
I really enjoy People’s Pharmacy information. Well presented with plenty of literature citations. Being a retired hospital dentist, I really appreciate how you readily dive down the rabbit hole of PubMed!
David
I have been taking Gabapentin now since 2000 for restless leg syndrome. It has been successful for this when nothing else worked. I have however, weaned my self from 2700 daily down to 1200 (4 pills) taken before I go to bed.
Lisa
Gabapentin has ruined my life. I had all the bad side effects starting it, but not realizing it until a few weeks later. I had to withdraw fairly quickly because I was having a mental breakdown. I had suicidal ideation, tremors, high heart rate, anxiety, depression and had to lie down all day every day. I had to go on more drugs while coming down which will now take up to two years to withdraw from. I am going through this right now.
Eileen
My Neuro Opthalmologist wanted to put me on this for nystagmus. After reading more than 800 reviews on your site I refused to take it.
Stephan
In October 2018 I had two herniated discs 6mm in length pushing on a nerve. Three epidural injections didn’t resolve the problem, so I underwent physical therapy sessions in attempt to resolve herniated discs.
During the 6 months of physical therapy I took one 300mg gabapentin in the AM followed by a second 300 mg at midafternoon and one at bedtime. If it weren’t for the gabapentin, I never would have been able to get through the PT sessions and had to side effects.
Fortunately, in March 2019 a follow up MRI showed that the discs had receded.
Then in September 2023 I broke six ribs from a fall and asked the MD to prescribe gabapentin which he did. I took only one 300 mg in the AM and one in the evening. This time I got brain fog and slight dizziness which I determined was because my broken ribs weren’t pushing on a nerve. I stopped taking because of fear of falling and dizziness.
Cate
I have been on gabapentin 1200 mg three times a day for 18 years! It is a savior for me and the horrendous nerve pain I have in my legs and feet. I really have not felt any adverse effects from it. My doctor at one point was trying to bring me down to 1200 mg twice a day and the pain was coming back so he put me back at three times a day and now I’m feeling great again!
Elsa
I read a while ago on PPh that Benfotiamine and
AlphaLipoic Acid showed relief for people with
Neuropathy. With R-AlphaLipoic acid being more
effective. NeuroAway .com has an AM and PM
formula (pm with Melatonin, B12, ++), it states
“occasional burning, tingling, numbness support”,
which is all they are allowed to say legally.
Katherine
I experienced very severe pain in my eyes due to dry eyes. At times they became infected but were appropriately treated for the infections. There were times when I thought I’d be healthier and function better if my eyes were removed. (I do not say that lightly: my son is blind.) I alternately thought of suicide or at least going to the ER. Two ophthalmologists could not help me sufficiently for the pain. In desperation I phoned my internist for help. He asked for 24 hours to research my complaint. Dr. R prescribed 100 mg of gabapentin 2x daily. It has been a miracle for me. I take it on a needs only basis, and may take it for 3-7 days at a time. Three months may pass before I need to take it again. No side effects.
Jeff
I take 900 mg of gabapentin nightly and have been for 12 years. I had peripheral nerve pain emanating from my neck, it was debilitating and there were no surgical options.
My neurologist prescribed this along with Mobic and the pain has completely disappeared.
The only side-effect I’ve noticed is my balance is not as steady as it once was.
PJ
You do not mention the benefits received from Gabapentin for those who live with Parkinson’s.
Deanna
I take 100 mg of gabapentin at night for stabbing pains in my feet that were happening during the night. As long as I take that one pill, I never have a problem. I have never increased the amount. If I forget to take the pill, I experienced stabbing pins and needles sensations in my feet at night. So I just take the single pill, and I seem to do fine on it. I had a friend who took it during cancer treatment for neuropathy, and she ended up taking almost 1000 mg a day throughout the day which I thought was a lot. I don’t know how she could function on it. It does seem that some people build up a tolerance and need more and more, for pain management.
Bonnie
I care for a woman with primary progressive MS. She takes gabapentin neurontin for nerve pain, and it has been helpful with minimal side effects. She also uses “millet packs” (bean bags) cooled in the freezer before applying to her legs or warmed in the microwave to ease pain at night. She swears by the millet packs.
Joyce
I developed peripheral neuropathy, with stabbing pains in my legs, a few years ago. Being over 70, and with a fear of adverse cognitive consequences, I wanted to avoid gabapentin.
After researching, I started taking R- alpha lipoic acid supplements, 300 mg, twice daily, for several weeks, eventually lowering to once daily dosing.
As long as I continue the daily dose, I have no neuropathic pain. When I stop taking it, the pains recur, so I am pretty sure it’s the answer for my issue.
I haven’t identified any adverse effects from this supplement.
I did also add B vitamins at the same time, and have maintained them.
William
My podiatrist put me on gabapentin. I was experiencing my feet going round and round in circles at night. Gabapentin seems to have helped little bit, but not nearly enough. I have experienced balance problems, which is very dangerous for this 78-year-old man. After reading about all of the bad side effects, I determined to check with my primary physician for a different treatment. Perhaps acupuncture?
Josehine
My husband was on gabapentin at 100mg daily. He took it every morning for 2 1/2 weeks. Then he had a severe heart attack. Sad to say, after that his organs started to all fade, and he never woke up. People should be worried that this could happen to them. And this Dr. should check out these dangers before prescribing this stuff.
Lisa
I am on day four of Gabapentin withdrawal, 900 to 600, then 300 then one, and none now. I have come close several times to checking myself into an expensive detox clinic. I am scared, anxious, can’t sleep and am more miserable than I’ve ever been in my 62 years. It’s so bad that I almost had a mental breakdown this morning, even with some meds to help. I wish I had known this was even a possibility. Unless you have no choice, please look up possible side effects, which include depression and suicidal ideation.
Lisa
I was given gabapentin in the hospital after hip replacement surgery. Although this surgery is typically “outpatient” (they replace your hip and send you home same day), I was admitted overnight because I was not able to get up to walk due to dizziness. For 3 days I had orthostatic hypotension with my blood pressure getting as low as 80/39 or so low the machine couldn’t measure it. They finally tried taking me off gabapentin and gave me oxycodone instead. My dizziness went away the next day, and I was able to get up and walk so I could be discharged. As a PS, the oxycodone gave me a rash. I quit taking it two days later when I figured out the connection.
Alan
I had my knees replaced roughly 10 years ago. Not long after surgery neuropathy occurred in both legs and feet, which included restless legs. Gabapentin was prescribed and taken regularly but recently the “brain fog” and trouble with balance has caused me to reduce and then eliminate Gabapentin. The “fog” had cleared but the other symptoms remain.
Additionally I’ve been told I have Venous Stasis in my legs. On a bad day I rely on one Tramodol which is very helpful
I try to walk outside for 20 minutes or so which helps. I’m 87 and trying to hang on to my health dealing with other physical issues. My goal is to outlive my wife of 66 years so I can take care of her until we leave this crazy world to go home to Jesus.
Gaylene
I am taking 200 mg of gabapentin daily for “restless legs”. I have had balance problems for several years. I am not sure when the balance problems started in relation to the gaba. I know the gaba has a sedative effect since I can’t sleep if I don’t take it. Iwas recerntly diagnosed with periphal neuropathy, not sure how this came about, but it seems quite mild. I will take this up with my doctor.
Katy
I was prescribed Gabapentin for chronic back pain. It definitely helped but the brain fog and sense of tiredness was not worth it. I could not function and stopped after a month. Will never go back.
Kimbra
I took lyrica for nerve pain. Did nothing but make me depressed and constipated, which raised my potassium to dangerous levels. I quit when my 30 day supply ran out. Never again. I’ve had neuropathy since then. I controlled it with spray on Biofreeze, plus B comples, NAC, L carnitine, and alpha lipoic acid.
Ralph
GABA felt like a dose of rat poison. It affected my gait and balance. My vision became blurred and indistinct. I took no other medication with it. I also experienced short term memory deficit. It should be taken off the market. I have heard that people give it to their cats-poor things! It can cause long term damage to neurons as it interferes with the natural process. Don’t take it! The listed “could be” symptoms are real-
Catherine
I was given gabapentin for pain after surgery for oral cancer including free flap reconstruction for my tongue. While in hospital I experienced an episode of extreme dizziness followed by sudden evacuation of my bowel. Once home, a week later, I again experienced syncope and fell, cracking my head against the kitchen counter. My GP immediately took me off gabapentin and the symptoms cleared quickly.
Georg
Low dosage Lyrica (100 mg each, mornings and evenings) for about 15 years has only given relief, no grief. Where in the world (other than age-old research) do you come from ?
Patricia
Was put on gabapentin because of insomnia. It really made me unable to function properly and I stopped taking it. Was only on it for a few days. I felt better after I no longer was on it.
Joe
I was on Gabapentin, 1200 mg/day, for some 6 years for leg spasms after a series of back surgeries. It caused an inability to concentrate, to focus on details of daily life, for such things as financials, maintenance, record keeping–especially record keeping. I withdrew from Gabapentin, but the ability to focus returned only partially. I still have trouble keeping things in order.
Judith
I was prescribed 50 mg Lyrica, at bedtime only, for radiating neuropathic pain down my right arm. It relieved the pain. However, when the generic pregabalin was substituted by the pharmacy, I suffered nausea, confusion and dizziness. I withdrew – over time – from Lyrica, and my pain returned full force. I’m back on brand name 50 mg Lyrica, at bedtime, and have relief with no complaints.
Lynn
I have had pudendal neuralgia for 5 years. I’ve been to 17 doctors up and down the northeast and had a surgery that did not work. I was planning my suicide, actively. My psychiatrist put me on Lyrica in a final attempt to save my life, and it worked!!! I no longer have to sit on ice all day to numb the nerve pain. I can go sit in a restaurant or on a plane or on the sofa without pain. I don’t have as much energy and have gained a few pounds, but still a size 6. And okay so I doze off at 8:45pm every night, but I’m alive.
Walter
I’ve been off and on Gabapentin for several years. No side effects I am aware of, and have never had withdrawal problems. I use it for neuropathic pain in my feet.
Uli
But what could be an alternative. Would be nice if you could offer suggestions. People just get scared, and then they don’t know what else to do.
Libby
I have been taking 1200 mg/day for 5 yrs, with Zoloft, for complex PTSD from extreme childhood abuse. I am 75 now. This combination is the only thing that has ever relieved my crippling anxiety.
Stan
It took several years to diagnose the tingling and feeling of cold in my feet, which started a month after I returned from serving in Vietnam. First it was one night every other week then progressed to once a week then onto every day. At first doctors thought it was something I picked up in Nam. One doc even wrote to CDC for info on these symptoms. Out of 4 different docs not one had a diagnosis.
So I soaked my feet in hot water every night till pain subsided, and I could sleep. After some 49 years a doc diagnosed me with neuropathy and told me to see a neurologist. She also diagnosed neuropathy and prescribed Gabapentin. My feet have been pain-free since. I have no side effects mentioned in your article. I am thankful to this doc and to Gabapentin.
Margaret
I am on Gabapentin 900 mg. per day for my essential tremor. I would have trouble stopping it because my tremor gets worse without it. My neurologist was careful to see that I understood what my exact dosage should be, and my kidney function is monitored regularly. It may be contributing to my poor balance but I have had 2 broken hips not caused by the drug. The broken hips themselves have contributed to the balance issues a lot. Otherwise, except for some drowsiness perhaps, I don’t think I have any side efects.
Kathy
I was prescribed gabapentin for Restless Leg Syndrome. It made the condition worse. I stopped taking it after three nights.
Terri
I took Lyrica for shingles, and when it stopped being effective, I was prescribed gabapentin. Pain relief but cognitive function was greatly diminished. It took 3-4 months to return to normal after ending use.
Vets prescribe gabapentin for pain. Makes me wonder what effects it has on animals.
Catherine
I was on Gabapentin several years ago. Within three days I noticed trembling in my hands. After five days I could not text or even hold a coffee cup. I discontinued immediately.
Two years ago my doctor prescribed pregabalin. I’d been taking it for a couple of weeks. After dinner one night I started to get up from the table but could not stand. I had to be helped to the bedroom. The next evening I was standing in my kitchen. All of a sudden my legs had no muscle control, and I collapsed on the floor. Very scary. I now have listed on my medical information “severely allergic reaction to Gabapentin and Pregabalin.” This stuff is dangerous.
Meg
I took Lyrica one time, prescribed for my chronic migraines. The next morning, I slipped and fell in a parking lot, shattering my elbow and injuring my wrist and shoulder as well. I was not warned of any side effects. Needless to say I never took another dose.
Jenn
I had a good friend and hiking partner who was prescribed Lyrica for relentless arthritic neck pain after other treatments failed. She was on the highest possible dose and was also on Tramadol as needed!
It did significantly help her nerve pain. But she also became an unpleasant, nasty, an unpredictable raging bitch (sorry – that’s the word). Her personality changed, and she was completely un-self-aware of the changes. It was scary, sad, painful and undiscussable – when I tried to share my experience and observation it just enraged her more. I ended the relationship. There was no other solution.
David
Only gabapentin helped with my neuropathy until I found some PT exercises on youtube–toe raises and ankle rolls-and stopped taking it. I have not needed drugs since. Glad to be free of the side effects.
Susanna
Was prescribed gabapentin for severe post surgical pain. Best pain relief I ever got, but after just ONE dose, I started thinking about suicide and how I would do it. Actually discussed it with my SO, and he said no more of that drug. He probably saved my life.
Victoria
Gabapentin has allowed me to sleep without my feet keeping me awake. I have had MS for 32 years and the cold and tingling in my feet would keep me awake every night. With Gabapentin I am able to rest well. I have been on and off of it several times over the years. I don’t experience depression with it.
Brooke
I was on Neurontin for severe femoral nerve damage. It didn’t touch it at all. I get much more help from LDN.
Ellen
I developed small fiber neuropathy during the COVID lockdown. The neurologist prescribed Gabapentin. I started out taking 900 mg a day with the knowledge that it could be increased all the way up to the maximum dose of 2600 mg a day, if necessary! I started experiencing some minor side effects so I decided to check out what all the possible side effects might be. I searched on the internet and there is a long list of possible side effects. I advise anyone taking Gabapentin to do this. After seeing this list of side effects I decided I would not increase my dosage and, in fact, I decreased it to 600 mg per day. It isn’t the perfect dose but I will not go any higher.
Betty
I have been taking Gabapentin for almost two years (1200 MG) per day and it has been the only thing that has eliminated my constant cough after Covid. To me, it’s a miracle drug,
Helen
Old news, these 2 drugs help many, it is unfortunate that not all drs. are aware of side effects and the necessity of having to slowly wean off if discontinuing use.
Haro;d J
Diazepam is a” miraculous” effective drug often ,overused but sometimes underused…
Even after many years of use, it will still be effective in the same dose. Withdrawal after long-term use is virtually impossible.
HANNAH
I have been on 1800mg gabapentin and 10mgs Flexeril, a muscle relaxant, for a little over three years. I have had two neurologists retire without notice and am waiting six months to meet the new one. I still don’t have a definitive diagnosis. However, my symptoms are the same as MS. MS was eliminated after a lumbar puncture(the worst pain ever!). I tried weaning myself off the Flexeril and had an immediate increase in muscle contractions. I tried weaning myself off gabapentin, and the contractions worsened. I had to taper back up to the most effective dose, 1800mg, for me.
I still have numbness and tingling in my hands feet and face, but it is manageable. I now suffer the side effects of tinnitus, crumbling teeth(and I used to have strong enamel), abdominal bloat after each dose, apathy, anxiety, and depression. Prior to taking gabapentin I had several extreme mental episodes attributed to what we thought was MS, after the brain scan showed Dawson’s Fingers. Those all stopped immediately after going on the gabapentin. Those episodes were debilitating and could be suicidal, except my very strong faith mitigated any of those impulses.
I have learned to live with depression. I can redirect those impulses in another direction. There are a lot of benefits for one with seizure-like muscle contractions, that is, people wth MS. There are also a lot of side effects. Each must balance pros and cons. It all depends on what it is used for to determine whether it is worth it. I have choices. If there was another option for me I would take it. I therefore must find a way to mitigate the cons without taking another med to treat the side effects of it. That way is a slippery slope.
I am 63 and only take those two prescribed medications. I also used nutritional supplements that cost me over $100 a month. I refused statins after a horrific side effect of severe musculo-skeletal pain. Completely disabling. Blood pressure meds also caused my BP to go up and down out of control. I tested my DNA and had a diet designed to help my BP and weaned myself off the BP drugs under my doctor’s supervision. I actually took longer than he told me, to be extra careful about it. So I am considered non-compliant since I refuse to treat my cholesterol (borderline for 20 years) or my high BP. And my kind of neurological problems do not run in the family. Hopefully my new neuro will find a diagnosis that can be treated with something safer than gabapentin.
Joe
I’ve been taking gabapentin for about 3 years now. 1200mg per day. Brain fog, check. Depression, check. It is one of 3 meds I take, and I will be talking with my doctor to get off this weird med.
George
Against peripheral neuropathy, I have been taking 50 mg twice (morning, bedtime) for years. The pain it mostly controlled (numbness in arms is left), side effects not noticed.
Diane
I was prescribed Gabapentin 300mg twice a day one year ago when I was diagnosed with Peripheral Neuropathy with no known cause. I don’t have any other health problems and didn’t take any other medications. I had brain fog, dizziness, vertigo and was not functioning very well. I currently am on only vitamins, and my neuropathy pain has gone down around 80% and is now tolerable (without Gabapentin).
Elle
Gabapentin and Lyrica both caused significant and noticeable memory loss that cease shortly after I quit taking these medications. Neither of them worked for the neuropathy pain.
Barbara r
Colorado
Lyrica 75mg twice a day has made me fatigued and sleep more than I used to.only on for 8weeks…notice hair coming out. Going to doctor tomorrow and will ask for lower dose
Have spinal stinosis and has stopped all the pain
Mary
Georgia
I was on 3600mg of Gabapentin for about 5 years. Three times I tried to get off of it due to the mental fogginess, fatigue and frequent falls. I didn’t stumble…I would just be walking along either inside or outside and I wouldn’t even realize I was falling until I was face down on the ground. The withdrawal symptoms were insane!!! Had hallucinations of all kinds and developed restless leg syndrome. I will never go back on it!!! Ever!!
Judy
Ohio
I have restless legs syndrome. I have tried every alternative health method suggested. They all worked for awhile and then they didn’t. Finally out of desperation I agreed to try medication. The doctor prescribed Sinemet which helped with the tingly, spider sensation but did nothing for the jerking. So the doctor prescribed gabapentin, 100 mg. I only need one capsule usually, sometimes two. It makes it possible for me to sleep. Taken together, I usually have no problem with my legs.
Gail
Houston
I am on a 1000 mg of gabapentin for severe nerve pain. I only take an occasional pain pill now. The gabapentin has relived the debilitating pain in my legs. The worst side effect has been drowsiness which seems to be going away.
Elsa
WI
I had been taking gabapentin since 2010 to relieve symptoms of severe nerve pain following a microdiscectomy during which the surgeon tore the dura (the membrane surrounding the spinal cord).
I had taken as much as 2700 mg. per day, and for 8 of those years I was also taking morphine and hydrocodone. A year ago I graduated from the Mayo Clinic’s 3-week “Pain Rehabilitation Program” and am now off of: morphine, hydrocodone, xanax, clonazepam and methylphenidate.
Last month I returned to Mayo’s Pain Clinic and received a recommendation for Lyrica, starting at 150 mg per day and titrating up to 600 mg per day. I am currently at 400 mg per day. I find the Lyrica is more effective at controlling my pain. That said, I also am experiencing cognitive deficits: short-term memory impairments and with longer term memories I find I can remember images, e.g., people’s faces and images from movies, but I cannot retrieve the NAME of the person or the movie. Very strange experience. The other night “Tooty Fruity” was on the jukebox and I could see Little Richard’s face but couldn’t remember his name. This kind of thing keeps happening; picture is there but word isn’t.
John
Texas
On a different note. Regarding Balance Issues caused by Neuropathy, do you see anything on the horizon that can help us with this type of Neuropathy?
Ellen
OH
What is the difference between these prescription drugs and over-the-counter GABA supplements? A couple of the comments would indicate there are significant differences; I would like more information.
Cici
United States
I was recently told I am not a candidate for HRT in spite of early menopause symptoms that are severe. Instead of hormones, the OB/GYN stated I should take Neurontin, which I disagreed with vehemently. Are there studies supporting the reduction of vasovagal symptoms with Neurontin? Yes. Does it provide relief for some according to these studies? Yes. So would Valium or Xanax and nobody would think about making that a first line treatment for menopause. I took Neurontin for a week when I had shingles and experienced discontinuation symptoms that were severe in spite of tapering myself off. As a therapist, I see a lot of substance abuse clients who take Neurontin in combination with other drugs.
Paula
Albuquerque
I have been taking a low dose of gabapentin (200mg) at bedtime for several years because a sleep study confirmed that I was waking up many times a night, meaning that I would get up in the morning and feel like I did not sleep at all. This was to replace the clonazepam I took for several years for this problem, because I was getting scared about reports of that drug contributing to dementia.
I follow all of the standard advice about getting a good night’s sleep, but none of that prevents these frequent wakenings. Whenever I forget to take the gabapentin I wake up at least hourly all night long and feel horrible the next day. I hope that at this low dose it is safer than one of the “z” drugs. Besides, lack of sleep also degrades one’s memory, mental sharpness and overall health, so what’s a person to do?
Diane
NJ
Almost four yeats ago I was suffering from right sided low back and sciatica. Found out I had right sided synovial cyst! Was the largest neurosurgeon had ever removed. Surgery went well. Followed up with physical therapy. Unfortunately left with pain. Bottom line after two years on different pain meds which made me loopy I was placed on Gabapentin 600mg three times a day to total 2400 mg.
Eventually weaned myself off. Need to take 300 mg only once daily as needed. It’s a godsend! Side effects weight gain and constipaton.
VeeJay
While I was in the hospital recovering from lower back surgery I was prescribed gabapentin for leg pain. Soon after taking it my blood pressure rose. I asked the nurse if it could be from the gabapentin. She looked it up on her phone and it was a side effect. I stopped taking it and my blood pressure went back to normal
Gay
I have taken gabapentin since 2008. It is true that abruptly stopping The medication is harmful, may cause seizures, this is clearly stated in the patient pamphlet. However the risk of falls in my opinion is due mostly to the perpherial neuropathy. The foot/leg and the nerves supplying the leg for ambulation are not functioning properly, and the person is looking down to see where the feet are. This then makes the person more apt to fall first by gravity pulling downward, and second by poor perception of the nerves to make the balance adjustments. This seems like another way to just increase the suffering of chronic pain patients, by taking away what little relief we are able to find. If you don’t need it you will know, if you need it you will know. There is nothing like being eaten alive from your toes on up by fire ants.
Marilee
Florida
I came down with a severe case of shingles. I suffered from the pain of the rash and then, weeks later, realized I had the severe lingering nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia. My doctor and I discussed the best way to treat this debilitating condition and decided that “off” label use of Lyrica was worth trying on a limited basis. I was given a one month prescription. Relief started within about 36 hours of beginning. My pain diminished to a level where I could sleep and function again. I took warnings about the drug to heart, but fortunately had none of the possible side effects. Near the end of my pill supply, on doctor’s suggestion, I started to taper off, reducing my dosage. By the time I was out of medication, I was fine, symptom free with no after effects.
Hope
TN
I have been taking Gabapentin for 17 years. The brain fog it creates is horrible. I know what I want to say but can’t find the words. I feel like it has cost me my intelligence. I have severe short term memory problems.
Bill
St. Louis
In 1986, I was infected with a virus in my spinal chord which resulted in complete paralysis from the Chet down. The infection I had is transverse myelitis. After 9 months of physical therapy, I could finally walk without crutches or cane. However, I was left with peripheral neuropathy in my legs and, especially, my feet. The pain was and is excruciating. It wasn’t until 2004 that I found out about lyrica. I used lyrica for 11 years until going on Medicare. Medicare wouldn’t cover lyrica because it wasn’t generic. So I was prescribed gabapentin. Gabapentin is not as effective as lyrica for me but I still cannot imagine my life without it. These drugs have been life changing for me. I may be a little unstable on my feet but I was worse before the drugs. I am more tired than before TM but being in chronic pain can do that to a person. For me, I have 3 periods in my life, before TM, after TM and after gabapentin and lyrica.
Gwen
Dallas Tx.
Gabapentin was prescribed for me 10 or so years ago. I have Nueropathy, “restless legs” syndrome, my legs would ache, jump and twitch at night and disturb my sleep.
I was prescribed 100mg Gabapentin once a day at bedtime and have had relief ever since. Recently, I forgot to take the pill and the symptoms immediately returned.
At 80yrs old I am grateful and have never attributed any other ageing symptoms, such as memory loss and balance, to the drug.
If I forget names they will normally come back to me. I just say they are in files – and my brain will sort through them and find them.
I am grateful for People’s Pharmacy and the common sense health information that you give us. So many times I have followed your good advice and have also shown my Doctor.
Thank you
Kristin
AZ
This article mentions lots of bad side effects and withdrawal problems with Gabapentin, so I thought I’d express a different opinion. I had excruciating sciatic for over 15 years. I’m a very athletic, energetic person, but even walking to my mailbox often forced me to sit down on the dirt and cry from the pain. My doctor prescribed Gabapentin. He stupidly started me on a very high dose: 900mg. 3xday. It did wonders for my sciatic pain, but it also put me in an overly-ecstatic la-la land where I felt like I was the essence of joy. I quickly realized that was too high a dose, and I asked to have it lowered. I had no problems at all with withdrawal.
I am now on 300mg only once a day. My sciatica is very minor at this dosage, and I notice no side effects whatsoever. I have stayed on Gabapentin at 300mg/day for about 3 years, and will be happy to stay on it at this level for the rest of my life. It works miracles for me. I have no dizziness, no balance issues, no brain fog, and none of the other symptoms others have mentioned. For me, Gabapentin has been a life saver.
By the way, the article did not mention the fact that Gabapentin is also a “mood enhancer” which explains my euphoria at the very high dosage. My opinion is that patients’ nerve pain might be helped by Gabapentin and may or may not be accompanied by side effects. It makes sense to start on a low dose and increase slowly to see what the pluses and minuses are for you. Then, decide with your doctor if you want to stay on it. My quality of life has improved tremendously with Gabapentin.
George
Hunters, WA
After using Gabapentin for a few years I ran out and forgot to order more. A few days later I ended up really sick. One of my caregivers researched it and found out you need to be weaned off of it. Anyhow I ended up at the emergency room, they administered a dose and by the time I got home I felt better. Needless to say I won’t go “cold turkey” again…
Eileen
NY
I’m so glad I was able to wean off Gabapentin which I was prescribed for back & leg pain. I didn’t really have any ill effects from taking 300 mg 3 times a day. But after I had my hip replaced after discovering it was bone on bone, all back & leg pain disappeared. So it was then that I thankfully was able to eliminate the medication.
Terri
Florida
I have been on Lyrica 7 yrs and otherwise o would have diet from nerve damage pain from neck surgery bone spurs and also a Fibromyalgia. Here’s my ? to everyone: I have tried all types of Medical Cannabis and they all made me hurt a lot more. It kept me awake all night in worse pain. So now I’m just on Baclophen at bedtime, Lyrica 75 mgs 4 times in 24 hrs, Melatonin and 3/4ths mg of Valium at 4 am out of desperation to calm the pulsing burning nerve pain in my left neck. I feel my great beating there and it keeps me awake too. My ? is- have any of you also experienced M Cannabis conflicting with Lyrica?
Bonnie
Brandon mb canada
I have been on gabapentin for 2 months now for the pain of knee replacement surgery.i was on 1200mgs a day now up to 1800mgs a day.It doesnt help with the pain at all
reginald s
inverness, fl
I was experiencing nerve inpingmemt on lumber disc L5 on my right side. I was given low doses of a steriod for about 2 months and my doctor stopped them. I went on gabapentin in hopes of getting some relief because I had to wait 2 months to see a pain management specialist. I don’t like taking drugs that are alterations of natural alternatives so I went on straight GABA and by the third week I felt back to normal! I was taking 2200mg’s of GABA a day with no side effects.
Janet Shelden
Virginia
After two years of pain, 4 drs., I was diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy in 1998, and put on neurontin and ultram. I had 300 mg of the first 3 times a day and 50 mg twice a day for Ultram. Then they went into generics and had to go up on Gabapentin after given Cipro for a UTI- pain intense. Thus it’s 4 a day. Yes, I am sleepy during the day but at age 82, that doesn’t bother me. I forget things (mother died of dementia at 73), but I am willing to take what helps. Wish I hadn’t read this!
Ginny
Durham,NC
I’ve been taking Gabapentin at bedtime since Sept., 2018 for PLMS (Periodic Limb Movements of Sleep). This was diagnosed after a sleep study. For me the Gabapentin has been a blessing. Before I would wake up after about 4 hours of sleep and it would usually take 3-4 hours to get back to sleep. Too often I had to get up and try to go with only the 4 hours of sleep. Not good at all. The only side effect I have had is a rather dry mouth when I first wake up. I manage that by putting a glass of water by my bed and chugging it 1st thing in the AM. And I’m sleeping 7-8 hours /night!!
Kim
Portland OR
For the past month I’ve been taking a low-dose (300mg.) of Gabapentin as a migraine prophylactic. After trying many other meds., supplements, and dietary changes, my neurologist thought it was worth exploring. I had a bit of dopiness for the first week, but not since then. I think it’s helped a little- maybe reduced the frequency of headaches by 20%? But believe me, that’s worth it! Not sure if we’ll try upping the dosage to further reduce migraine episodes.
barbara
North Carolina
I took Gabapentin for two or three years. It cured the nerve pain but gave me depression. When I realized depression was one of the side effects I stopped taking it. Some of the nerve pain has returned but not enough to make me take Gabapentin again.
Depression puts your life on hold.
Roy
NC
Although the article does not mention it, Lyrica is also used for RLS (restless leg syndrome). I am taking Lyrica (25 mg after lunch and 50 mg an hour before bedtime) as part of a cocktail of drugs prescribed by a neurologist to control RLS.
Vera
Washington state
Gabapentin has been a blessing for my night time Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). Minimal side effects. I use to walk the floor and cry at night because I could not stay in bed due to RLS. It also helps with the arthritis and nerve pain in my neck. I searched for years for relief so I consider it a blessing.
Jane
If half of users are on 10 or more prescriptions, that means about 5 million people ingest massive amounts of drugs daily, and this is just gaba users. It seems inconceivable to me that 10 or more chemicals interacting in a human body can be beneficial. There is no possible way to evaluate possible adverse reactions or interactions. I have no doubt most of those scripts are written to deal with issues caused by other prescriptions. Add to this the thousands of chemicals in the environment and our food supply and we are indeed immersed in a toxic soup. Better living through chemistry my foot!
Rhonda
NC
I took GABA drugs, both gabapentin and pregabalin for severe back pain. After some months i noticed very foggy thinking. Couldn’t remember simple things, sleepy all the time. I had a much slower rate of processing information. I even ran off the road in my car a couple of times, something i’ve never done before. When I asked the doc about it he said, “Oh yeah, that’s a known side affect. We don’t mention it because not everyone has it.” I stopped the meds right away, knowing from my research that there would be hell to pay, and there was. At least I was prepared for it and my husband was very supportive and understanding during this time. He was also glad I was off the meds because he said he did not recognize the person I had become. I have since found relief through chiropractic care. Not 100 percent but pain free most days and when I have pain, it’s much less severe.
Helen
USA
I hope to find some natural remedies and get off gabapentin (Neurontin) entirely, though I only take a low dose (even that affects me negatively).
I have lots of nerve issues and some pain due to fibromyalgia and a separate neuro condition, as yet non-specified, but looking rather like cerebral palsy. Would appreciate any suggestions. Perhaps The People’s Pharmacy could do a column on healthier alternatives.
I don’t do yoga or related because of my religious beliefs. Also can’t do deep massage or chiro because my neuro condition causes the muscles to cramp and spasm easily, and they can (very!) easily “lock” on me, which is extremely painful and makes even stretching difficult. I can sometimes do gentle stretching when at my best.
Magnesium, calcium, and alpha lipoic acid help a bit, as does applying heat or taking a warm bath, and using magnesium oil, but during flares, I need more help. Thanks for any ideas.
Bob
UT
GABAPENTIN is to me a horrid drug due to side effects.
I’d rather endure crazy nerve pain than have a drug mess with my mind this much. Due severe RA and severe osteoporosis there are irreparable nerve pains in neck, shooting into head.
Anyway I am stunned as to what I hear and read that the FDA doesn’t have the means to actually test drugs. Companies can use private so called inspectors. Who cares about the ill? No one. It’s all about pharma industries getting richer.
There are drugs on the market in the USA that will never be allowed in Europe due to strict QUALITY checking and control. No one seems to care about the suffering here.