Gabapentin Side Effects, How to Minimize Gabapentin Side Effects

Gabapentin is a medication primarily used to treat nerve pain (neuropathy), epileptic seizures, and sometimes restless legs syndrome (RLS). While it can be very effective, it may also cause some side effects. Gabapentin is a medication primarily used to treat nerve pain and seizures. While it can be effective, it also has a range of potential side effects that users should be aware of.

Gabapentin is approved to prevent and control partial seizures, relieve postherpetic neuralgia after shingles and moderate-to-severe restless legs syndrome. Learn what side effects to watch for, drugs to avoid while taking gabapentin, how to take gabapentin and other important questions and answers. Gabapentin is available in both branded and generic forms.

Gabapentin is a prescription medication known as a gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogue. GABA reduces the excitability of nerve cells (neurons) in the brain, which play a role in seizures and the transmission of pain signals. Gabapentin mirrors the effects of GABA calming excited neurons.

Gabapentin is in a class of medications called anticonvulsants.

Buy Fioricet Online for Headache Relief

Acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine is used to relieve tension headaches. Acetaminophen is in a class of medications called analgesics (pain relievers). It works by changing the way the body senses pain. Butalbital is in a class of medications called barbiturates. It works by having a relaxing effect on the brain and central nervous system (CNS). Caffeine is a CNS stimulant. It works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain.

ioricet capsules contain a combination of acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Butalbital is in a group of drugs called barbiturates. It relaxes muscle contractions involved in a tension headache. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant. It relaxes muscle contractions in blood vessels to improve blood flow.

Fioricet is used to treat tension headaches that are caused by muscle contractions.

What does each ingredient do?

BAC contains three compounds. Each has a different action to help manage pain:

Butalbital: This compound is a type of barbiturate. It reduces anxiety and causes drowsiness by relaxing your muscles and nervous system. As it can be habit-forming, medications with butalbital are tightly regulated.
Acetaminophen: This is a widely used medication to reduce pain and fevers. It’s the generic form of Tylenol.
Caffeine: Caffeine causes the other two ingredients to work better. It also has some anti-inflammatory effects.

Some BAC medications contain additional active ingredients. For example, Fioricet is also available with codeine, an opioid pain reliever.

How long does Fioricet stay in your system?

Fioricet contains three different drugs. Each drug is estimated to stay in your body for a different amount of time.

Acetaminophen is eliminated after about 6 to 15 hours
Caffeine is eliminated after about 15 hours
Butalbital is eliminated after about 7 days

combination is used to relieve symptoms of tension (or muscle contraction) headaches. Butalbital belongs to the group of medicines called barbiturates. Barbiturates act in the central nervous system (CNS) to produce their effects.

Butalbital-acetaminophen-caffeine: Brands vs. generic

There were previously at least 30 brand names of BAC available. Some of the most common included:

Esgic
Fioricet
Orbivan
Phrenilin
Vanatol (liquid form)
Zebutal

All but Fioricet have been discontinued.

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Can I get trazodone online?

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Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your clinician.

Can I get trazodone over-the-counter?

Trazodone is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed healthcare provider.

If you’re looking for a prescription, book a telehealth appointment to talk to a provider who can write a new prescription or refill an existing prescription. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

How do I learn more about trazodone?

You can learn more about trazodone by checking out our drug information pages. Read on to learn more about trazodone, its side effects, and dosage information:

Trazodone Information
Trazodone Side Effects
Trazodone Use & Dosage Information

Can I get a new prescription or prescription refill online usahealthstore?

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What are the brand names of gabapentin?

Gabapentin is available as both a brand name product and a generic product (chemically the same, usually lower cost than the brand name product). Brand names of gabapentin include Horizant®, Gralise® and Neurontin®.

What is gabapentin approved for?

Here are some common off-label uses for gabapentin:

1. Chronic Pain Conditions

Neuropathic Pain: Gabapentin is often used for types of nerve pain not specifically approved by the FDA, such as diabetic neuropathy and sciatica.
Fibromyalgia: While not officially approved, gabapentin may help reduce pain and improve sleep in fibromyalgia patients.

2. Psychiatric Disorders

Anxiety Disorders: Gabapentin can help manage generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety in some cases.
Bipolar Disorder: Occasionally used as an adjunct therapy for mood stabilization, though evidence is mixed.

3. Sleep Disorders

Insomnia: Gabapentin can improve sleep quality, particularly in individuals with pain or other co-occurring conditions.

4. Alcohol and Substance Use Disorders

Alcohol Withdrawal: Gabapentin may help reduce symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, including anxiety, tremors, and cravings.
Cocaine and Cannabis Use Disorders: It has been investigated for reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms in these contexts.

5. Migraine Prophylaxis

Though not officially approved, gabapentin is sometimes used to prevent migraines due to its effects on the nervous system.

6. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

Gabapentin can alleviate the discomfort and improve sleep in individuals with RLS.

7. Menopausal Symptoms

Used to reduce hot flashes and night sweats in menopausal women.

8. Pruritus (Itching)

Effective in treating chronic itching, particularly in conditions like kidney failure or liver disease.

9. Post-Surgical Pain

Sometimes prescribed to manage acute pain after surgery, especially in procedures with a high risk of neuropathic pain.

10. Gabapentin is used to

Prevent and control partial seizures. Gabapentin can be used in adults and children age 3 and older who have partial seizures.
Relieve nerve pain following shingles in adults. Shingles is a painful rash that develops many years after you’ve had chickenpox. The virus that causes chickenpox stays dormant in a portion of your spinal nerve root called the dorsal root ganglion. For whatever reason, this otherwise dormant virus gets reactivated — usually by stress — causing a shingles rash. Nerve pain following a case of shingles is called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).
Treat moderate-too-severe primary restless legs syndrome.

The branded gabapentin products Neurontin and Gralise are approved for partial seizures and PHN. The branded gabapentin enacarbil product Horizant is approved for restless legs syndrome and PHN.

What dosage strengths and forms does gabapentin come in?

Gabapentin is available as:

Gabapentin tablets. It’s available as 300- and 600-milligram tablets (Gralise) and 600- and 800-milligram tablets (Neurontin or generic gabapentin).
Gabapentin oral solution. The oral solution contains 250 millgrams of gabapentin per 5 milliliter (50 mg per mL) Neurontin or generic gabapentin.
Gabapentin capsules. It’s available as 100-, 300- or 400-milligram gelatin capsules (Neurontin or generic gabapentin).
Gabapentin enacarbil, 300- and 600-milligram extended-release tablets (Horizant).

How should I take gabapentin?

Take Gralise tablets with your evening meal. Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water. Don’t chew, break or crush.
Take Horizant tablets with food. Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water. Don’t chew, break or crush.
Take other forms of gabapentin with or without food.
Neurontin and generic forms of Neurontin tablets may be broken into two pieces. You can take the second half for your next dose. Don’t use the half-tablet beyond 28 days after the whole tablet was cut or broken.
Carefully measure the liquid formulation of gabapentin using the measuring device that comes with the drug. If you did not receive a measuring device, please ask your pharmacist for a medication-measuring device.
If you take an aluminum or magnesium-containing antacid, such as Maalox®, Mylanta®, Gelusil®, Gaviscon®, or Di-Gel®, wait at least two hours before taking your next dose of gabapentin.
Take gabapentin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Common Side Effects of Gabapentin

Drowsiness: Feeling unusually tired or sleepy is one of the most common side effects.
Dizziness: You may feel light-headed or off-balance.
Fatigue: General tiredness or lack of energy.
Coordination Problems: Difficulty with coordination, unsteady movements, or clumsiness.
Blurred Vision: Vision may become less clear.
Tremors: Shaking or trembling, especially in the hands.
Nausea and Vomiting: Some people experience an upset stomach.
Swelling (Edema): Swelling of the hands, feet, or ankles.
Weight Gain: Some people notice an increase in weight, especially with prolonged use.
Memory Issues: Difficulty concentrating, remembering things, or experiencing mental fog.
Dry Mouth: A dry feeling in the mouth or throat.
Headache: Mild to moderate headaches

Less Common but Serious Side Effects

Mood Changes: Including anxiety, irritability, depression, or agitation.
Suicidal Thoughts: Gabapentin has a rare risk of causing suicidal thoughts or behavior. This is especially concerning if there’s a history of mental health issues.
Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms can include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. This requires immediate medical attention.
Difficulty Breathing: Breathing problems may occur, particularly in people with respiratory conditions.
Muscle Weakness: Unusual muscle weakness or pain.
Unusual Eye Movements: Jerky eye movements (nystagmus) can occur, which may affect vision.
Increased Seizure Frequency: In rare cases, people may experience an increase in the frequency of seizures instead of relief.
Low Blood Sodium Levels (Hyponatremia): Symptoms can include confusion, severe drowsiness, and weakness.

Psychological Side Effects:

Mood Changes:
- Depression, anxiety, or mood swings.
Behavioral Changes:
- Agitation, irritability, or hyperactivity.
Suicidal Thoughts:
- Increased risk of suicidal ideation, particularly in younger individuals.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects:

Nausea and Vomiting:
- Feeling sick or actually being sick.
Diarrhea or Constipation:
- Changes in bowel movements.
Dry Mouth:
- Decreased saliva production, leading to a dry feeling in the mouth.

Serious Side Effects:

Allergic Reactions:
- Symptoms include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
Respiratory Depression:
- Slowed or difficult breathing, particularly dangerous if taken with other CNS depressants.
Severe Skin Reactions:
- Conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome, characterized by painful rashes and blisters.
Pancreatitis:
- Inflammation of the pancreas, leading to severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Kidney Problems:
- Changes in urine output or color, swelling in the legs, and feeling tired.

Long-Term Side Effects:

Dependency and Withdrawal:
- Although not common, there is potential for dependency with prolonged use. Withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, pain, and sweating.
Chronic Fatigue:
- Persistent tiredness that does not improve with rest.
Cognitive Impairment:
- Long-term use can potentially lead to difficulties with concentration and memory.

Gabapentin Interactions

Gabapentin can interact with other medications, leading to increased side effects or decreased effectiveness. Notable interactions include:

CNS Depressants:
- Enhanced sedative effects when taken with alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines.
Antacids:
- Reduced absorption of gabapentin if taken too close to an antacid.

Managing Gabapentin Side Effects

Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor side effects.
Dosage Adjustments: Your doctor may adjust the dose to minimize side effects.
Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and staying hydrated can help manage some side effects.

Always consult with a healthcare professional if you experience any side effects, and never stop taking gabapentin abruptly without medical guidance.

Who Is at Greater Risk for Side Effects?

Older Adults: Seniors may be more sensitive to gabapentin’s side effects, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion, increasing the risk of falls.
People with Kidney Problems: Gabapentin is excreted through the kidneys, so those with kidney issues may require dosage adjustments to prevent toxicity.
People with Respiratory Issues: Gabapentin can depress the central nervous system, so those with existing breathing problems should use it cautiously.

How to Minimize Gabapentin Side Effects

Take as Prescribed: Follow your healthcare provider’s dosing instructions carefully.
Slow Tapering: Do not stop gabapentin suddenly; taper off under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Monitor Mental Health: Be aware of mood changes, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts, and report them to your doctor.
Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can intensify drowsiness and dizziness, increasing the risk of accidents.
Take with Food: If you experience stomach upset, take gabapentin with food to reduce nausea.
Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular appointments to assess how gabapentin is affecting you, especially if taking it long-term.
Report Allergic Reactions: If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical help immediately.

If you experience any severe or unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Are there any serious interactions with gabapentin and other medications?

Serious breathing problems can happen if you take gabapentin with drugs that cause severe sleepiness or decreased awareness. Some examples include narcotic opioids, anti-anxiety medicines, antidepressants, and antihistamines. If you are 65 years of age or older and/or have a condition that affects your lungs, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), there is an increased risk for breathing problems. Watch for increased sleepiness or decreased breathing when you start taking gabapentin or when the dose is increased. Get help right away if you develop breathing problems.

Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms develop:

Confusion.
Unusual dizziness or lightheadedness.
Slowed, shallow or trouble breathing.
Unresponsiveness (can’t wake up).
Bluish-colored or tinted skin, especially on lips, fingers or toes.

What other medications and products can interact with gabapentin?

Products that interact with gabapentin include:

Alcohol.
Antihistamine-containing cold, cough and allergy products.
Certain medicines for anxiety or sleep.
Certain medicines for depression, such as amitriptyline, fluoxetine and sertraline.
Certain medicines for seizures, such as phenobarbital and primidone.
Certain medicines for stomach problems. (Wait two hours after taking aluminum and magnesium-containing antacids before taking gabapentin.)
General anesthetics, local anesthetics, or muscle relaxants given before surgery.
Narcotic pain medicines.

Can I drink alcohol while taking gabapentin?

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking gabapentin. Drinking alcohol with gabapentin could increase sleepiness or dizziness.

What else do I need to know about gabapentin?

Never stop taking gabapentin without talking to your healthcare provider first. Stopping gabapentin suddenly can cause serious problems, including increasing your risk of seizures (if you are taking gabapentin to control seizures) or not improving your symptoms (if taking gabapentin for other indications). Also, never change your dose without talking to your provider first. Always take gabapentin exactly as prescribed.

Don’t drive, operate heavy machinery or do other dangerous activities after taking gabapentin until you know how it affects you.

Read the full prescription information leaflet that comes with your medication. Never hesitate to ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about gabapentin.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before starting gabapentin?

Tell your healthcare provider if you:

Have lung or breathing problems.
Have diabetes.
Have kidney problems or are on dialysis.
Have or had mood problems, depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior.
Have a history of drug abuse or alcohol abuse problems.
Are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

Inform your providers of all medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter, as well as supplements, vitamins and herbal products.

Can I take gabapentin if I’m pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant?

It’s unknown if gabapentin can harm your unborn baby. For this reason, talk to your healthcare provider as soon as you know you are pregnant. You and your healthcare provider will determine if you should take gabapentin during your pregnancy or change to a different medication.

Does gabapentin pass into breast milk?

Yes, gabapentin does pass into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk with your healthcare provider about breastfeeding or medication options.

Is gabapentin a narcotic or controlled substance?

Gabapentin is not a narcotic. It’s not classified as a controlled substance in most states. (Kentucky, West Virginia, Michigan, Tennessee, and Virginia have reclassified gabapentin as a Schedule V controlled substance). Gabapentin is not an opioid.

Is gabapentin addictive?

Gabapentin is not addictive, but this doesn’t mean that gabapentin can’t be abused. A small number of studies have reported misuse and abuse of gabapentin.

Does gabapentin cause withdrawal symptoms?

Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms have been reported since the drug was approved. However, the individuals in these reports experienced symptoms after discontinuing higher-than-recommended doses of gabapentin and for uses for which the drug was not approved.

What’s known about gabapentin and overdose?

Overdoses on gabapentin have been reported. Individuals experienced double vision, slurred speech, drowsiness, diarrhea and sluggishness.

What should I do if I miss a dose of gabapentin?

If you forget to take a dose of gabapentin, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s just a few hours before it’s time to take your next dose, take only one dose. Never take more than one dose in an attempt to catch up. If you have any concerns or questions, be sure to call your healthcare provider or pharmacist right away.