I'm at the beginning of this journey. I tried a low dose, short course of Gabapentin with no noticeable difference. At this time I'm choosing to seek comfort from my numbness & tingling which is most likely due to small fiber neuropathy without medication.
Your experience sounds very frightening. I find myself sleeping on my back more than before and I catch myself snoring and waking up with a sore throat, so you've confirmed my thoughts to proceed with caution in terms of treating with medication.
If I was in extreme pain I might not have the choice.
I'm hoping you gain some insight soon.