How long do you take Gabapentin?

supposed to gradually start and gradually stop from what I know, been taking it since 2002 or 2003, currently at 2400mg split into 1200 at 4pm and 1200 at 6 or 7pm, I was originally prescribed for prophylactic for migraines, tried stopping a couple of years ago as read some very concerning articles about it in medical journals, pinching twisting nerve pain in various parts of the body started happening, started taking again but they never could tell me why I suddenly started a new issue than from before when I discontinued, gaba was hiding something developing, now have preliminary MGUS diag with a lot of other concerns. so still taking gaba with nerve pain now breaking through it, very uncomfortable and have cold potato feeling in lower left side around spleen area, D.mg

Have been on 1200 mg of Gabapentin since 2017 for back, right leg and foot sciatica as well as complicated degenerative spine issues and do have constant ear ringing. I’ve an implanted nerve stimulator for both my leg and back since 2020 which helps with pain….the back more so than the leg. Never made the ringing connection as have just made do with all that is going on. Thank you for your interesting observation. As I am to understand Lyrica and Gabapentin are the only nerve treatment drugs to treat nerve damage pain and Drs orders are to be followed carefully when taking or coming off this drug. I assume, like any other drug, one builds up immunities and that should be built into your pain plan.

Hi , I too take Gabapentin. Currently on 3600 mg a day for over 13 years. Tried lots of other things including Lyrica but gained weight in belly that pushed my hiatal hernia and affected my esophagus. There is a drug called Savella but my insurance needed prior authorization. At this point my body is struggling each day. Too many things wrong with me to list. I found the meds worked a bit better in the beginning.

Hi I was reading your post about headaches and they can’t figure out why. I have migraines and found out 40 years ago that it’s artificial sweeteners and preservatives that was causing them. I was drinking diet drinks when I went to the doctor with these headaches. They were debilitating! They also put these artificial chemicals in a lot of the prescription pills. Some I can’t take because of it. Good luck and feel better

I don't know how long to take Gabapentin

@babykay Instructions about taking prescribed drugs have to come from your doctor. The answer would be different for everyone, and other people will be on different doses of Gabapentin and may be taking it in combination with other drugs. A neurologist told me that patients will build up to higher doses in time and the drug becomes more effective as time goes on. I think you also may need to taper off if you are going to stop using it, but again, please ask that question of your prescribing physician. Your pharmacist may also be a good source of information on this too. If you are having side effects from taking a prescription, your doctor needs to know.

Thank you for your response

I was asked to try Gabapentin due to a fall. I hesitated a year ago due to the side effects of the drug. I was only prescribed 100 mg to begin and in less than two weeks I started to have weak and stiff legs and leg cramps at night which I had not experienced prior to this. I tapered off and am still having some of the same leg issues two to three weeks later. Has anyone else experienced anything similar to this?

I take 800mgs 3 times a day. Never had that problem.

My doctor prescribed Gabapentin after my spine surgery but only 300 mg. at bedtime which really helped me to sleep. After I stopped seeing my surgeon, my internal medicine doctor cut it down to 100 mg. At bedtime but it was not helping me to sleep so I told her I was going to increase it to 200 mg. At bedtime and it helps me to have a restful night. I do have an off/balance problem in the morning so I have to be careful and use my cane. I hate having to use a cane but it is better than not being able to sleep. It is no fun getting older but if Gabapentin helps, take it and be glad….but I am worried about the people who are taking such large doses every day. Yvie