@tami1
various rashes are possible with Gapapentin including the life threatening SJS (Stevens Johnson Syndrome although SJS is extremely rare. I’m assuming the purple patches are not blistering or painful. Since brusing is possible I’d check with a Dermatologist or Neurologist. Have you tried taking Lyrica? There are various Seizure medications that may offer some degree of pain relief but other Anticonvulsants usually have more side effects. Gabapentin seems to be the most effective nerve pain relief med.
Tapering is certainly an option. when I took 3,600 mg of gabapentin it had no affect on my seizures or my neuropathy although I never had any side effects. If you choose to taper do it slowly. If you choose to taper at the rate your physician recommends chances are more likely than not that you will suffer from withdrawal symptoms especially if they have you decrease your dose by the same milligram amount month after month.
Best of luck to you and please keep us posted on your progress. Your experience could help others here.
Jake