Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant drug approved for epilepsy and nerve pain, but it’s also used off-label to treat conditions like anxiety. It’s one of the most commonly used medications for seizures, nerve pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Its use is increasing, too—the number of prescriptions written for Gabapentin more than doubled between 2009 and 2016. One of the reasons it’s used so often is due to its non-addictive nature.
That said, can you have withdrawals from Gabapentin? The answer is yes, and it’s important to know about Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms before you stop your treatment. Withdrawal from Gabapentin can become serious if you stop abruptly, especially if you take a high dose or have used it for a long time.
Continue reading to learn what to expect and what you should do when coming off Gabapentin for anxiety.
Why Gabapentin Withdrawal Happens
To understand why you might have withdrawals from Gabapentin, it helps to know how it works. Gabapentin changes how your nerves send signals, so it quiets overactive pathways in the brain. When taken regularly, your body gets used to having it and builds a dependence on it for normal functioning.
If you stop taking a medication like Gabapentin suddenly, it can disrupt brain activity. Your nervous system may then react like something essential is missing, causing withdrawal symptoms. The higher your dose, the greater the risk of Gabapentin withdrawal when you suddenly stop the medication.
Common Gabapentin Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal from Gabapentin looks and feels different for everyone. However, there are some common symptoms to be on the lookout for if you’re planning to come off Gabapentin. Symptoms can be physical, psychological, or sleep-related. It can also cause rebound (meaning your original symptoms return or worsen).
Physical symptoms
If you suddenly stop taking Gabapentin, your body and brain can react in ways you’re not expecting. Physical Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they might be the first thing you notice as the drug is leaving your system.
Physical Gabapentin withdrawal side effects can include:
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Body aches
Psychological symptoms
When you’re used to taking a medication like Gabapentin, your mind can react as strongly as your body does when you quit taking it. It’s common to feel on edge or like it’s hard to control your emotions as you adjust to a Gabapentin detox. When you have a history of anxiety or depression, your withdrawal symptoms might be more pronounced.
Psychological symptoms of Gabapentin withdrawal side effects include:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Restlessness
- Mood swings
Sleep disturbances
Sleep disturbances are a classic symptom of Gabapentin withdrawal. Once you stop treatment, it might be hard to fall or stay asleep, leading to exhaustion in the days and weeks to come. Sleep and mental health are closely related—a lack of sleep is linked to increased anxiety, which is problematic if that’s what you’ve been taking Gabapentin for.
Sleep disturbances from Gabapentin withdrawal side effects include:
- Insomnia
- Vivid dreams
- Frequent waking throughout the night
Rebound symptoms
A “rebound effect” can occur when you stop taking medication and your original symptoms come back or worsen as your body adjusts. This is common if you take Gabapentin for nerve pain or seizures, but it’s also possible when you use it for anxiety.
If you notice anxiety symptoms returning or intensifying, talk to your doctor. They’ll be able to help you find another treatment plan or develop coping skills for anxiety so you can manage loop mop your anxiety symptoms during this transition.
How Long Does Gabapentin Withdrawal Last?
Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 12 to 48 hours after taking your last dose. The intensity generally peaks around days 2 to 3, and you’ll likely see gradual improvement over the following 1 to 2 weeks. A full taper plan can last anywhere from weeks to months.
Keep in mind that everyone’s experience stopping Gabapentin is different. The duration of withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on several factors, like dosage, individual physiology, and whether you appropriately tapered off the drug.
How to Stop Taking Gabapentin Safely
The good news is you can stop taking Gabapentin safely and effectively. You just need to have the right plan. Here’s how to reduce your risk of Gabapentin withdrawal.
Work with your healthcare provider
The safest way to discontinue Gabapentin (or any drug) is by working with your doctor. They will help you develop a reasonable tapering schedule tailored to your specific condition, symptoms, and needs.
Gradual dose reduction
A taper plan will let you slowly and steadily reduce the amount of a drug you take to limit the potential for severe withdrawal effects. A typical tapering schedule for coming off Gabapentin has you slowly reduce your dose every few days or weeks. Gradually reducing the dosage gives your body and brain time to adapt with minimal discomfort. It also ensures you and your doctor can monitor how you’re responding so you can make changes if needed, before your symptoms become intolerable.
Monitor for return of symptoms
As you taper off Gabapentin, you should monitor your adjustment. A journal lets you track your mood, sleep patterns, and any physical or emotional changes as you reduce your dosage. Journaling is an excellent tool for logging new emotional or physical patterns to share with your doctor.
“The tapering schedule may vary even for two different people who are on the same exact dose. There are multiple factors considered when deciding on how to lower the dose including what other medications you are taking, age, medical conditions and previous side effects you may have encountered with this class of medications.”
– Talkspace therapist Dr. Dion Metzger, MD
Managing Gabapentin Withdrawal Symptoms
If you experience Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms, the right tips will help you manage them.
Prioritize hydration and nutrition
You’d be surprised how much of a difference water and food make as you come off Gabapentin. Taking care of your body is crucial during this time. Staying hydrated, eating balanced and regular meals, and getting enough sleep will support your recovery.
Use calming techniques for anxiety or restlessness
If you take Gabapentin for anxiety, there are several natural remedies for anxiety proven to help with symptoms. Using them as you taper off Gabapentin will help quiet your mind and reduce anxiety as you adjust.
Anxiety-relieving strategies like mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), deep breathing exercises for anxiety, meditation, and gentle movement like yoga are effective ways to activate the parasympathetic system and alleviate anxiety.
Consider short-term symptom relief
Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend short-term use of supplements or other medications to ease specific symptoms of withdrawal. If you’re struggling with anxiety, insomnia, or nausea, talk to your provider about options for relief.
Withdrawal-related anxiety may require you to take medication as needed to help the acute symptoms you’re experiencing. Withdrawal-related depression may be reduced by increasing the dose of any mood medication you may also be taking.
“Withdrawal-related anxiety may require you to take medication as needed to help the acute symptoms you’re experiencing. Withdrawal-related depression may be reduced by increasing the dose of any mood medication you may also be taking.”
– Talkspace therapist Dr. Dion Metzger, MD
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you have withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking Gabapentin, they’re usually manageable. That said, while rare, it is possible to have serious side effects, including suicidal thoughts, hallucinations, or seizures. If you experience any severe reactions during your discontinuation plan, contact your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room.
Never downplay or ignore your need for care. If you have health concerns—whether your symptoms are mild or severe—reach out for help.
Moving Forward: Safely Transitioning Off Gabapentin
While Gabapentin withdrawal can be uncomfortable, it’s something you can get through with the right knowledge, plan, and support. Withdrawal is a sign that your body is adjusting, not a sign of weakness. Taking a step-by-step approach and staying connected to your doctor is key as you go through your tapering plan.
If you need help, Talkspace can support you. If you’re feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed about managing your mental health while coming off Gabapentin, Talkspace therapists know how to help you build coping skills and find Gabapentin alternatives.
Reach out today to learn more about Gabapentin for anxiety and how Talkspace can help you manage Gabapentin prescriptions online.
Sources:
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