Started gabapentin 4 weeks ago and I've noticed really severe constipation. The first time I went for 2 weeks. Started vomiting, used an enema and many doses of Milk of Magnesia. Then tried Miralax which did not work, and finally Dulcolax (the one that causes contractions of the bowel) which did. Gabapentin has relieved my neuropathic pain immensely. Thinking of trying Lyrica to see if it won't cause this awful side-effect, but the price... the price! Has anyone else had this problem, and if so how did you address it?
Constipation on gabapentin versus starting Lyrica?
Question posted by lisaamanning on 11 March 2013
Last updated on 11 July 2018
The information on this page reflects personal experiences shared by our community members. It is not reviewed for medical accuracy and should not replace professional medical advice.
5 Answers
Billie3473
15 March 2018
I have been on gabapentin now for about a month and a half and I think I have the same digestive issue that you do. The only thing that has given me any relief is prune juice but you have to deal with the serious gas that goes along with it. I hope this answers your question. You Are Not Alone
Rich01
17 March 2018
Yes, Gabapentin can cause constipation. it is listed as a side effect 4% of the time vs a placebo at 2%. So, it is not common, but definitely possible. I started on Neurontin 2 weeks ago and have gotten up to 600mg per day (goal of 1200mg). However, have gotten significant constipation which I have never had in my life (always regular in the am). Will have to weigh if it is worth keeping on it and/or increasing the dose. The effective dose is reported to start at about 1200mg a day for nerve pain (neuropathic pain). For some it apparently helps sleep. For me, no effect on sleep and little of the common side effects i.e. dizziness...
Inge Roome
19 Sep 2017
I also started Gabapentin about 4 weeks ago, and have had problems with constipation since I started this medication. Is this common?
Inactive
11 Feb 2017
I have never experienced constipation while on Gabapentin.
I would think that a stool softener should work. Take one every day.
Good luck to you.
Trish
RobinaDee
23 March 2017
I take Gabapentin for diabetes-related neuropathy. The vagus nerve which helps stimulate our digestion is just another nerve. I have a very lazy bowel when I have to take Gabapentin which I only take as needed. I always eat a high-fiber cereal with nuts and berries for supper if I feel like I am going to need the Gabapentin and I take a stool softener as well. YES, it can cause constipation. I sleep well when I have to take it, but I pay a price.
Patticook
11 Feb 2017
I am beginning my research process because something is causing a constipation problem but I am not sure what. I only take gabapentin and synthroid regarding prescribed medicines otherwise I take vitamins or herbals. Something is causing me to move my bowels yet at the same time create a constipation build up inside my body which causes intense pain up against my back. I went to the ER last month, got an x-ray, and was told it was severe constipation. I followed with a colonic. I will be going to my doctor next week because i take the gabapentin for leg cramps associated with sciatica (Back pain) anyone else having simular issues
DanRachel3
11 July 2018
I am taking armour thyroid and gabapentin for leg cramps associated with sciatica (Back pain) and am having the same symptoms any feed back on what the Dr told you
kaismama
11 March 2013
They are about equal with this. Most of us with chronic pain just have to learn how to deal with the constipation of the meds we take. Drinking alot of water, getting fiber and taking a stool softener like colace often helps. I've learned that I have to pay attention to my body, if I don't go in 2 days I have to take something stronger and I switch to peri colace. I don't know how you stood it for 2 weeks.
lisaamanning
11 March 2013
Yes, I'm also on a pain patch and prn narcotic for breakthrough pain, so I had been taking stool softener. But now will take the max daily dose of Colace. Spoke with my pharmacist, and he said take Miralax every day and wait for at least 5-7 days before taking pericolace if I hadn't had any results. Thanks for the input!
Related topics
lyrica, constipation, gabapentin
Further information
Similar questions
Search for questions
Still looking for answers? Try searching for what you seek or ask your own question.