Quick answer
What is gabapentin used for?
Gabapentin is a medicine used to treat neuropathic (nerve) pain and, alongside other medicines, epilepsy. Doctors increase the dose slowly to reduce sedation, and the dose is adjusted for people with kidney disease because it is cleared through the kidneys. It is a controlled drug in the UK due to dependence risk, and it should not be stopped abruptly.
What gabapentin is used for
Gabapentin is used to treat postherpetic neuralgia, diabetic neuropathy, and epilepsy as part of a treatment plan. It is sometimes used off-label for restless legs syndrome as well.
How gabapentin is dosed
Treatment with gabapentin starts at a low dose and is built up gradually, with the total daily amount divided across several doses. People on dialysis may need a supplemental dose after their session, since gabapentin is cleared through the kidneys.
Side effects of gabapentin
Drowsiness, dizziness and fatigue are common, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose. Suicidal thoughts are a rare class effect reported with gabapentin, so any change in mood should be reported to a doctor.
Gabapentin’s controlled drug status
Because gabapentin is a controlled drug, prescriptions cannot usually be repeated early without a review. It should be stored safely, as it carries a risk of misuse.
Common questions about gabapentin
- Is gabapentin used for back pain?
- Gabapentin is not generally used for simple back pain. It is only appropriate when there is a nerve-related (neuropathic) component, such as sciatica, rather than ordinary backache.
- Is it safe to take gabapentin with opioids?
- Combining gabapentin with opioids increases the risk of dangerous respiratory depression, so this combination needs caution. It should only be done under specialist pain management guidance.
- What should I do if I miss a dose of gabapentin?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next one, in which case skip the missed dose. If you are stopping gabapentin after long-term use, it should be tapered rather than stopped suddenly.
- Can gabapentin cause swelling?
- Peripheral oedema, or swelling in the limbs, has been reported with gabapentin. Report any sudden weight gain or breathlessness to your GP, as these can be signs that need assessment.