Gabapentin Side Effects: Most Common Symptoms and Dangers

Gabapentin, also sold under the brand name of Neurontin, is a prescription drug used to treat epileptic seizures. It belongs to a class of drugs called anticonvulsants, agents that have anti-seizure properties. Gabapentin also relieves nerve pain caused by shingles (a painful skin rash). Its mechanism of action is still unknown. It seems as if gabapentin prevents the increase in sensitivity of pain and alters calcium levels in the body. The list of gabapentin side effects is long and includes a few serious and even life-threatening conditions.

Gabapentin Side Effects

Some light side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness are likely to occur and require attention. However, serious side effects such as viral infections, panic attacks, violent behavior, and suicidal thoughts are considered an emergency and the doctor needs to know about them. This article will discuss the gabapentin effects and dangers in more detail.

Alongside the positive effects, this chemical may also produce unwanted implications. Because the drug is used with other medication to treat seizures, the risk of gabapentin adverse effects increases. One needs to make sure he or she is following the medication guide each time a refill or intake is due.

Short-Term Effects of Gabapentin

The following list includes some of the most common short-term effects of gabapentin abuse. It is crucial that one follows the doctor’s dosing instructions and sticks with the program. To minimize unwanted implications, it is recommended to take the very first dose at bedtime. If any of the common side effects of gabapentin listed below persists, one should let their doctor know about them. They are:

• Dizziness & Drowsiness – The drug slows down one’s thinking and motor skills, thus causing dizziness and drowsiness. These side effects are likely to emerge in the initial stages of uptake and one should avoid driving and using heavy machinery until the symptoms have settled down.
• Unsteadiness and Lack of Coordination – Gabapentin may induce feelings of disorientation and/or almost feeling, causing the user to bump into objects.
• Memory Loss – Even on low doses, the chemical may affect one’s cognitive abilities, triggering memory loss and confusion.
• Difficulty Speaking – One may experience an increase in salivation which can affect his or her speech ability.
• Viral Infection – One of the most common adverse symptoms of the drug in pediatric patients from 3-12 years old.
• Tremors & Jerky Movements – Because the drug affects the brain and central nervous system, it may cause involuntary tics and tremors across the body.
• Double Vision & Unusual Eye Movements – Some users reported doubled or blurred vision, even at low doses. This can be particularly dangerous if the person is driving or operating heavy machinery.
• Fever –  The drug may induce illness, especially in patients who are female and over the age of 62. 

Make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows about these gabapentin effects, especially if they persist for more than a week.

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Long-Term Gabapentin Side Effects

Long-Term effects of gabapentin use involve serious and at times life-threatening conditions. One should contact their doctor or call 911 immediately if he or she displays any of the following:

• Changes in Mood or Anxiety – Gabapentin may induce unusual changes in one’s behavior and has an ability to worsen depression and anxiety of its users. Aggression, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, panic attacks and restlessness have all been reported as long-term implications.
• Allergic Reactions –  These can be severe and even fatal, including skin rashes, hives, swollen glands, lips, and tongue, unusual bruising and bleeding, and unexpected muscle pain.

Also, a person’s pre-existing condition could exacerbate the symptoms. For example, people who have kidney problems will process the drug more slowly and are at an increased risk of dangerous levels in their body.

On the other hand, people with epilepsy should never stop taking the drug suddenly. Doing so will put them at risk of having a condition called status epilepticus – a medical emergency wherein seizures occur for 30 minutes or more. It is imperative one informs their doctor about any conditions that may affect the drug’s functioning.

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Taking Gabapentin During Pregnancy

Gabapentin effects on pregnancy are still unknown but initial research suggests that it can cause harm to the animal fetus. There haven’t been enough studies conducted on humans yet and the issue is still very much a grey area.

One needs to consult with their doctor if they’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as the drug can jeopardize the child’s health. Women should avoid taking the drug unless the potential benefit surpasses the potential risks to the fetus.

Women who are breastfeeding should particularly steer clear of the drug as the chemical could penetrate into the breast milk and affect the child. Women in such situations should talk with their doctor and decide together whether they should stop taking the drug or stop breastfeeding.

Gabapentin Effects and Dangers – Final Thoughts

The scope of gabapentin adverse effects is enormous. Hence it is crucial that patients follow the right dosage guidelines and always keep their doctor updated. The drug also carries a high risk of abuse and overdose, which further boosts the risks outlined above.
There are specific groups of people who should be extremely careful with medicating with gabapentin. These include seniors, children under the age of 18, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. If mild side effects persist for over a week, one should call their doctor to find the appropriate solution.

Those with any of the severe, long-term related side effects should dial 911 immediately or ask their doctor for help.