Gabapentin Withdrawal Timeline

Gabapentin, also known by its brand name Neurontin, is a prescription painkiller with anti-convulsive properties.

The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) approved the use of gabapentin for the treatment of epileptic disorders and neuropathic pain in 2004. Medical professionals also prescribe gabapentin as “off-label” treatment for restless leg syndrome, fibromyalgia, seizures, and/ or hot flashes. Medical News Today explains that gabapentin works “altering electrical activity in the brain and influencing the activity of chemicals called neurotransmitters, which send messages between nerve cells.” Stopping gabapentin abruptly can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and dangerous side effects, which is why individuals are typically advised to wean themselves from gabapentin using tapering off method. The dosage used, the method of ingestion, the personal health history of the individual, whether the person simultaneously used other substances, the presence of any comorbidities, and the frequency of use will all contribute to the type and severity of withdrawal symptoms and length of time it will take to detox from gabapentin successfully and safely.

Withdrawal Symptoms & Tapering Off

Tapering off gabapentin can be accomplished by slowing reducing one’s dose over time. An individual detoxing from gabapentin will work with a medical professional to develop a plan to effectively take him or her off the medication. Depending on one’s situation, this may include lowering the dose over a single week or several weeks. Tapering off gabapentin will allow one’s body to slowly acclimate to the reduced amount of medication present in his or her system which can help to mitigate some of the withdrawal symptoms. Every person is different and will experience a unique combination of withdrawal symptoms with varying levels of severity when it comes to detoxing from gabapentin. Healthline provides a list of common withdrawal symptoms some of which include, but are not limited to, the following examples:

The timeline to wean off gabapentin will be different for each person as it will be greatly informed by the individual and his or her current dose of medication. It is essential to discuss any withdrawal symptoms with one’s overseeing medical professional, so proper adjustments can be made. An individual’s safety and comfort are prioritized during the tapering off process, which is why there is a somewhat flexible reduction of dose schedule developed and it is often modified and altered to accommodate each person’s nuanced needs.

Contemplating detox can be a very challenging time. Before any individual can begin to work on the underlying issues contributing to their substance abuse problem, they must be separated from the substances in their systems. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Sherwood Detox offers a stand-alone detox program. For additional information on detox, please do not hesitate to contact us at: 818-626-9959‬ or feel free to email us anytime. One of our trusted counselors is available to talk and discuss how we can best support you on your journey.