Gabapentin Side Effects: Common, Severe, and When Abruptly Stopping

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication that is used to control seizures when used regularly and as prescribed.

Gabapentin is also commonly used to help control nerve pain that commonly develops in the legs, called neuropathy.

While Gabapentin is relatively well-tolerated when used correctly and as prescribed, as with most drugs - there are potential side effects.

The side effects may be worse or more pronounced in those using too much of the medication, or in those who are using the medication without having a medical condition.

The Most Common Gabapentin Side Effects

According to the FDA Gabapentin package insert the most common side effects of Gabapentin are:

Dizziness

Sleepiness

Peripheral Edema

In patients >12 years old using Gabapentin for seizures, the most common side effects are:

Sleepiness

Dizziness

Ataxia

Fatigue

Nystagmus

In patients 3-12 years old using Gabapentin for seizures, the most common side effects are:

Viral infection

Fever

Nausea

Vomiting

Sleepiness

Hostility

More Severe But Less Common Gabapentin Side Effects

According to the Gabapentin package insert, the less common but more severe potential side effects of Gabapentin may include:

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS)

Multiorgan hypersensitivity

Anaphylaxis

Angioedema

Severe sedation and dizziness

Seizure when abruptly stopping the medication

Suicidal behavior and ideation

Neuropsychiatric adverse reactions (Ages 3-12)

Sudden and unexplained death in epilepsy patients

Potential Side Effects When Stopping Gabapentin Abruptly

You should never stop Gabapentin abruptly or without speaking with your doctor first, as there may be side effects from stopping the medication too quickly or suddenly.

The risks of having withdrawal symptoms from Gabapentin are higher when you are on high doses of Gabapentin, or have been taking Gabapentin for a long time.

The following side effects may occur from suddenly stopping Gabapentin:

Agitation

Restlessness

Anxiety

Insomnia

Nausea

Sweating

Flu-like symptoms

Seizures

Irregular heart rate

Confusion

Headache

Tiredness

Weakness

Nerve pain returning

Side Effects Which May Develop From Gabapentin Misuse

Gabapentin is supposed to have a low abuse potential, but some users may try to purposely abuse the medication, or use Gabapentin when they do not have a related medical condition.

In these situations, those who use Gabapentin improperly may be setting themselves up for side effects from misuse.

Side effects from Gabapentin misuse may include:

Anxiety 

Confusion

Rapid heart rate

Confusion

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.