I have cut back from 800 mg qid to 800 mg tid. I would like to eventually completely stop taking it if I can.
What is the safest way to cut back on my Gabapentin dosage?
Question posted by ElaineT on 22 July 2013
Last updated on 18 July 2018
3 Answers
Hi ElaineT,
Slowly! I am in the same boat as you, I've gone from 3600mgs to 600mgs in about six weeks. It's not too bad, really. Just had some headaches and nausea but that's all. My pain has actually gotten better after going down so much. Have you noticed any change in pain levels?
Lara
Not much. I started going to a chiropractor two weeks ago for some relief in my sacrum joint. She has kind of convinced me that Gabapentin side effects can be dangerous so I am trying to decrease it slowly along with the Vicodin I take. I'm giving it a shot to see what happens. I'm tired of being tired and hurting and taking so much meds!
I hear you, Elaine! I, too haven't noticed any difference in my pain levels, if anything it's a bit better and no more memory issues, nor cognitive impairment, but that's debatable...
What is the side effect that is the worst for you, if you have any?
Lara
I'm glad you posted this. It helps me more than the pro sites. Thanks, GCJ.
You need to contact your Dr. to taper off of this medication as the side effects of not tapering correctly can really be bad.
You have to taper off slowly & Gabapentin comes in
100mg capsules & that way you can step down slowly.
Best of luck, Kathy
You are doing the right thing. I went down every three or four days. If you experience returning pain or problems, be sure to talk with your physician.
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Further information
- Gabapentin uses and safety info
- Gabapentin prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Gabapentin (detailed)
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