Gabapentin Side Effects: What Every Patient Should Know in Advance
- January 31, 2025
- Gabapentin
Gabapentin is commonly prescribed for numbness, seizures, and even anxiety. But like every other medication, it has its own quirks. This is why it’s always wise to understand your medication before use – for example, side effects can be quite unpleasant despite relief being desirable.
Here are 6 factors to keep In mind before you start Gabapentin.
You May Feel Drowsy After Use
Gabapentin maybe too effective sometimes, and that’s a bad thing. While most patients with choric pain have reported to feeling less difficulty during movement, others state that they become unusually drowsy and lightheaded. This is most noticeable in the first few weeks of use.
Pro tip: Avoid driving or handling anything that involves sharp tools (yes, that kitchen knife) until you know how your body reacts to medicine.
Poor Balance Can Make You Feel Dizzy
Have you ever felt that your legs don’t keep up with the rest of your body? This is because Gabapentin can sometimes interfere with your coordination, which leads to the feelings of unsteadiness. People after their mid 30s often experience this the most.
Pro tip: If you have started bumping into furniture during your morning routine, go slow and steady. If the unsteadiness persists, talk to your doctor.
Mood Swings Can Be Part of the Package
Gabapentin’s effects are not limited to eliminating pain, the medication also modulates the person’s nervous system. In some cases, it can be beneficial for anxiety, but in others, it has been shown to cause a shift in mood such as rise in irritability and even depressive symptoms.
Insider advice: If you find yourself feeling unusually low or moody, reach out to your doctor. There might be an adjustment in the dose that can help with the issue.
Changes in Weight Are Likely, But Controlled
Some patients may gain weight while using Gabapentin because of high appetite levels caused due to metabolism changes. It’s not a guarantee, but it’s good to be aware of.
Insider advice: Try and remain active while moderating your food intake. For starters, walking instead of grabbing another slice of cake puts you a step ahead.
Dry Mouth Can Be More Of An Inconvenience
Dry mouth has its pros and cons, but consuming Gabapentin gives you the feeling of chewing on sand. A persisting dry mouth does not seem serious but can lead to other issues such as having bad breath, dental issues, and overall discomfort.
Pro Tip: Make sure to have sugar free candies and water as well to keep your mouth moist.
It’s Painful To Stop Suddenly
Patients often do not know that Gabapentin has specific requirements to stop taking it. Stopping all of a sudden can pose withdrawal signs such as anxiety, nausea, sweating and in dire conditions, seizures.
Pro Tip: If you feel the need to stop taking Gabapentin, whisper down and do it as gradually as possible. It definitely goes a long way so do the right steps with your doctor’s help.
Is Gabapentin Right for You?
Gabapentin may serve as a beneficial treatment option; however, being aware of its potential side effects can enhance your ability to manage them effectively. It is important to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, regularly assess your feelings, and make adjustments as necessary.
For high-quality pharmaceutical solutions, Pharmaticus offers trusted medications and expert guidance to support your health journey. Because when it comes to your well-being, being informed is the best medicine.
