My doctor recently increased me from 1800mg to 2700mg due to my neuropathy getting worse from the fibromyalgia. Ive recently noticed some tremors and tics in my eyes, face and arms. I am not sure if this is from the fibro or the increase of the gabapentin. It might be that I am just having a fibro flare, I'm not sure. The increase was just done 2 weeks ago. Any help would be great.
Thanks,
Tee
Those of you on gabapentin have you noticed tremors & tics in eyes, face or arms?
Question posted by Tee6759 on 28 Feb 2013
Last updated on 5 April 2025
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.
43 Answers Page 2
Safinney123
23 April 2018
Yes I have noticed shaking and trembling when my dosage was increased. Especially in my hands. I’m so glad to hear this because I was afraid of Parkinson’s disease.
Peachyking
31 July 2017
Most definitely GABA would increase these responses. At that high of a dosage it's most likely the reason, but remember with gabapentin, less is usually more, the benefits of Neurontin go up to a certain benefit level, then it becomes negligible.
williep
29 July 2017
I am on Gabapentin for my diabetic neuropathy, but at a much lower dose than you (only 1200 mg). I have some very mild tremors in my hands, but am not sure it is from the Gabapentin or another med.
joannsigns
28 July 2017
Hello! I was prescribed gabbapentin 300 mg @ 3x day so 900 mg dosage. It worked very well for neuropathy for legs incurred from a fall. I had neuropathy symptoms burning cold and numbness in lower legs. I had not been sleeping and gabbapentin helped but then I was not waking up for 20 hours or 14 hours of sleep. So I cut back taking it at night only. Then not taking it at night because still would over sleep.
I then tapered off and now am having twitches in arms in my sleep and second day facial tic causing my mouth "blow bubbles" after taking only 100 mg at night.
Concerned I also have tinnitus and it increases as well.
Feel like I am going crazy.
Sweedypie2
1 Aug 2017
Do you think you might have tapered too fast? How long were you taking it? I can understand not wanting to sleep your life away. I developed an uncontrollable movement disorder from Gabapentin but not everyone has developed a permanent one.
jazzy002
2 Dec 2017
I'm recently on 1800mg day for PHN, and noticed some eye tics and some body tremors. I hope it doesn't get any worse, or I will taper down myself.
Sweedypie2
2 Dec 2017
Jazzy002, Gabapentin gave me very shaky hands after the first 300 mg capsule. I wish I had taken that as a warning that it was too much for me. The following morning, I decided to try one more capsule since my hand tremor had subsided. Within an hour after the 2nd dose, I developed a sudden movement disorder, which hasn’t gotten any better in 10 years.
I know this probably doesn’t happen very often. I recently found a woman on another site who developed a movement disorder after only taking Gabapentin for 2 weeks. It’s under the question, “Anyone else having issues with uncontrollable eye movement with Gabapentin!”
I have also read in Gabapentin Withdrawal groups that slow reduction is necessary.
Sweedypie2
11 April 2017
My last post mentioned that my doctor referred me to another movement disorder specialist, hoping that I would receive help. This time I was shown my MRI results, and I could see a white area, which she said, "That's your hypothalamus gland, but the good news is you haven't had any mini-strokes." I have heard that a stroke shows as a white area. She said, "The hypothalamus gland is part of our endocrine system, and my movements are caused by a psychological problem, and I need to stop dwelling on my idea of Gabapentin causing it. I let her proceed with her neurological exam. I couldn't put one foot directly in front of the other one without falling against the wall.
- Then she told me she would send me to a hand surgeon, since I had "Functional Neurological Syndrome," which is caused by my psychological disorder." I decided to show her a list of the rare side effects, that includes a stroke that causes nervous system problems, including Choreoathetosis, and said it's under the section, "For Healthcare Professionals." She wouldn't look at it. I asked if she would be willing to try Botox injections in my upper back muscles to stop my jerky shoulder shrugging, but she said, "No," and asked me to follow her to the desk. She told the scheduler to make an appointment with a hand surgeon for "contracture release," and told me I could also get the records from my appointment. (She had prepared them before seeing me) I have already been seen by a hand surgeon, who admitted that because of my colonic jerking, that my hyper-extended finger joints aren't repairable. I was satisfied with the admission under Allergens: "Gabapentin - Movement Disorder." I used to go by Boshie, but changed to Sweedypie2.
Nrethington
9 Jan 2017
I am in the process of trying to get a diagnosis for my various neurological issues, including pain and neuropathy. My neurologist strongly suspects MS. I have been taking gabapentin for over a year now, but only 300 - 400 mg per day, since I am hypersensitive to all medications. I have always been susceptible to tics, especially around the eyes, but lately, I am a veritable fireworks show of tics and tremors and muscular jumping. These things built up over the time I've been taking this drug, and I've been freaking out thinking that it was a symptom of MS! I also have been taking tramadol (only 25 - 50 mg /day) for many years, since a car accident in 1999. Again, I only take small doses due to extreme sensitivity, so the tramadol helps more with mood than pain itself. I cannot take nsaids or antidepressants, and have recently added steroids to my list if sensitivity. Dr. wants me on copaxone shots, but I'm probably going to pass in those.
Thinking it's time to wean off the gabapentin. I was originally googling about the tramadol, when these responses about gabapentin popped up. Maybe it's the combination of the two small doses. I'm afraid this problem may be permanent.
Boshie
9 Jan 2017
Hi, you sound like me in many ways. I was disappointed 4 years ago by a movement disorder specialist who did everything she could to defend Gabapentin and running me down, by claiming that my casual relationship with Gabapentin couldn't cause permanent dyskinesia, and told me, "You're Psychogenic." I asked her if she was basing her diagnosis on "Physiognomy?" She looked surprised that I knew about how they claim that they can evaluate a person's character by their outer appearance, especially by their facial expressions. Mine are so messed up by uncontrollable movements. My new Dr made arrangements for me to see another movement disorder specialist in Seattle at the end of March. I am going to take a copy of "Gabapentin side effects - in detail." You have to consider that doctors who see this have a tendency to blame it on a new condition rather than being a side effect.
Are you taking Gabapentin capsules or pill form? I read that capsules are the rapid release type. I had a bad reaction after the 2nd 300 mg capsule. Do you feel like you have buzzy nerve vibrations in your skin? I'm sorry you're having so many problems. I found other people on a Gabapentin Withdrawal Support group. If you want to know how to find them, let me know. Beth
hojo82
19 March 2016
I just started taking Gabapentin 800mg 3x per day (2400mg) for anxiety. The first 5 days were ok, but the eye tics and body twitches started to develop. Tomorrow I will stop the Gabapentin completely. Correct me if I am wrong, but I don't believe I have been on it long enough to become dependent. Also, it is causing excessive drowsiness.
I have gotten my doctor to write a prescription for Lyrica 100mg, which I am getting directly from Pfizer through their patience assistance program. I hope it has less side effects than the Gabapentin does.
Wish me luck and any feedback would be great!
Boshie
19 March 2016
You might not think you're dependent on it, but the sudden change in levels of GABA, could be harmful. I recommend that you search, "Gabapentin Side Effects" and choose Drugs.com. They have a section, after the common side effects, "For Healthcare Professionals," Under Nervous system, it says sudden withdrawal can cause delirium tremors. Take care and consult a physician.
Slainte79
20 Nov 2015
My Dr was in the process of weaning me off my gabapentin and was down to 300 mg a day. I had back fusion surgery 2 weeks ago with complications resulting in another surgery the following day to move a screw that made one of my nerves very angry. As a result I'm now taking 1200mg a day and I'm twitching all over the place, especially in my face. I'm glad I'm not alone!
Boshie
20 Nov 2015
My husband is probably going to have back surgery, because of nerve pain in lumbar region. I am sorry you are having twitching, and back pain. I was also very sensitive to gabapentin, I wish I had been given the 100 mg dose, since it also slows down kidney function, but that dose seems to be reserved for people with kidney disease.
Slainte79
20 Nov 2015
I haven't had problems with my kidneys thankfully, just these annoying little twitches and of course the drowsiness, but that's a given. I'm sorry you're husband is having back issues... they are no fun!!! I'm in my 30s and have had 3 back surgeries already. Make sure your husband finds a good dr!!! Have him stay away from the cortisone injections!!! They may or may not provide temporary pain relief, but theyou will end up breaking down the tissue with time, which will only cause more problems. :o(
Slainte79
20 Nov 2015
Sorry, crazy new phone and still trying to get used to it... regarding the cortisone injections, I meant to write they may or may not... not whatever crazy word came out haha. That's what I get for getting a phone that's the same size as my hand. :o)
Slainte79
20 Nov 2015
Sorry, crazy new phone and still trying to get used to it... regarding the cortisone injections, I meant to write they may or may not... not whatever crazy word came out haha. That's what I get for getting a phone that's the same size as my hand. :o)
Slainte79
20 Nov 2015
Now I'm posting things twice haha awesome! You'd think it was a Monday!!
Boshie
20 Nov 2015
The neurosurgeon insists on doing 3 cortisone injections, since they have to determine if it's L3, L4 or L5 that is being pinched. Did they make you take them first? He is scheduled for the third one. That is terrible that they put a screw through a nerve on you.
Slainte79
20 Nov 2015
Yeah it was horribly painful, but it is getting better. I know nerves take a long time to heal. I refused the shots... I also have Lyme Disease and corticosteroids are like kryptonite to us. But I refused them also because overall they do more harm than good. They're like bandaids. I hope they figure out which part of your husband's lumbar spine is the culprit. Mine was L5-S1.
chuck1957
2 Nov 2015
Boshie; That is good all that you did, Like I said it is in the very rare section and most doctors don't even know about some of these effects because they are listed much later after it is on the market for awhile and many more people are taking it instead of just in the studies what are put in.So thanks for many that have no Idea of these side effects.
Sweedypie2
7 May 2018
I want to give you an update. I recently found online information for doctors from Pfizer that was approved by the FDA. “NEURONTIN (gabapentin) | Pfizer Medical Information - US”
Dated: November 7, 2016.
It would only open for doctors, but it allowed me to print the information. Adverse reactions include:
Hepatobiliary disorders; jaundice -
Metabolism and nutrition disorders; hyponatremia -
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorder; rhabdomyolysis -
Nervous system disorders; movement disorders -
Psychiatric disorders; agitation -
Reproductive system and breast enlargement, changes in libido, anorgasmia.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders; Stevens-Johnson syndrome
chuck1957
1 Nov 2015
Bosie; We also have a great site here, I just looked and all of the side effects you and many are complaining about are listed under side effects. Also and most important if you do not see yours listed you just hit the button and report it right to the FDA so they have records of it and make the companies put it in there listing of side effects.Which must be updated so the doctor is aware of them and also any of us that want to know.Yours were listed in the rare sections so not real common for most people but just like if you don't see it don't believe it if nothing else has changed. It could be a side effect And that should be reported to the FDA. hope you all have a great day.
Boshie
2 Nov 2015
Thanks Chuck for your comment. I made a follow-up report to Med Watch, since an online doctor explained the reason why my symptoms would persist, so I figured Med Watch needed my brain MRI results. I also read your experience. I'm sorry about your bad accident and the preceding event. My husband also had a knee accident. He suffered for years before having knee replacement surgery. - Boshie
Boshie
1 Nov 2015
I would like to encourage people like you to report your complaint to Med Watch. I was very sensitive to this drug. It only took 2 consecutive 300 mg doses, to cause me to develop many strange symptoms. I was 59 years old, when I took gabapentin for nerve pain in my back and legs. I didn't get drowsy, but I saw many dots of colorful lights, and burning in one hand, with rapid hand flapping, and uncontrollable movements spread quickly. The strangest symptom, that didn't fit the situation, was uncontrollable laughing spells. My friend came and called the pharmacist and doctor in my behalf. My husband was present, but he was too upset. The nurse said that side effects wear off. Shrugging shoulders started late that night, and I knew it wasn't going to wear off. I don't think I had a common side effect.
Some people do okay on this drug, but I have uncontrollable movements from my head to my feet, and my right thumb and fingers locked up 2 months after onset, while sleeping.
On 9/28/2015, a new movement began when my mouth started opening and closing rapidly. I was not given any Rx for my movement disorder. I have never taken illegal drugs, and never smoked. I had lost about 90 pounds before this occurred.
A neurosurgeon did a brain and neck MRI on me, 6 months after the adverse reaction, but I was never given the results. When I finally went to ask for my records, my brain MRI showed that I had a 5mm lesion on my hypothalamus gland, at the entrance to the pituitary stalk. I learned the hard way, that a person should never allow humiliating symptoms to prevent you from going to the ER, since an adverse reaction to a drug needs to be documented while its still in your system.
I hope that you have had better success than I did. You should always report any uncomfortable side effects to your doctor. Did your movements subside?
MitchMiller
8 July 2015
I've been taking 600 mg of Gabapentin for 13 years. Over the past 2 years I have developed muscle spasms in my neck and muscle weakness in my arm and some jerking. I have no idea if it is related to the Gabapentin or not. If not, it is probably dystonia or essential tremor. I am going to start weaning myself off of the Gabapentin. I will post my results.
Inactive
20 June 2015
Sorry to hear of the twitching with the gabapentin. I also have Fibro and have had tics since they increased my dosage from 3-300mg 3x a day to 4-300mg 3 times a day but to be honest I never put two and two together. After reading everyone's responses I realized it was related to the increase also. Also I recently, within the last 18 months, lost a lot of weight but started putting weight back on and I couldn't figure out why. After reading the responses you got I never realized that Gabapentin could be responsible for that too. Wow thanks everyone for the information. It helps a lot. Now I can try and wean back on them and see if I get rid of the tics and the weight. Hopefully it will and I will still have some pain relief. Everyone thanks and I wish you all the best of luck with everything. I know how hard it is. Thanks again!!
Sistracie
19 June 2015
I just went up in dosage this week and feel more twitches in my face and all over! Weaning myself down starting today!!
danielle D
20 Aug 2015
Hi I have been neurotin 1800 miligrams a day my us it a side effect to teach it is all over its freaking me out I can see the muscles pulsing..help
Boshie
20 Nov 2015
Did it help to reduce your twitching by weaning down on this Rx?
JulieRay
27 Dec 2016
I was on 300 mg gaba for one year for tingling in toes and hot flashes and noticed a muscle contraction in my right eye--as if the eye lid was weak. It was once in a while to start with and I thought I needed reading glasses. It became more frequent in the last few months and I could see my right eye brow physically rise up when the episode occurred. A month back I was advised to have 2 gabas per night. In 2 weeks of the increased dosage, the eye muscle contraction episodes increased to a point they were happening almost every hour or so and it was so uncomfortable and embarrassing. I tested negative for myasthenia gravis. My doctor recently asked me to stop Gabapentin for a few weeks and check out. I tapered gaba to 1 per night for a week and stopped it completely. The contractions are much less and in the last 3 days almost none at all. I am asking other people in gaba to be on the watch out.
Boshie
9 Jan 2017
Hi JulieRay, Did your eye lid twitches subside after reducing to 300 mg? I also have a lot of twitches since I had an adverse reaction to the introduction to Gabapentin. I have noticed that you are the most recent person here. I think some people forgot to sign up to receive answers. I also joined an active "Gabapentin (Neurontin) withdrawal support group" through Facebook. You seem to be on a safe daily dose. Other people I have met, haven't been as fortunate.
Inactive
19 March 2015
I've taken 1800mg gabapentin daily for over a year and have not experienced your symptoms. It's generally worked well re my neuropathy... the main side effect as with some others on this forum is increasing short term memory loss. Good luck... hopefully you'll get/have gotten an answer. john
rocker101
19 March 2015
I have neuropathy and paresthesia will gabapentin or something else help maybe a cream or lotion because I don't do well on drugs?
1Roswell
13 May 2015
I've been on Gabapentin for 9 years,and just changed the dosage within the last 24 hours. All of the sudden, I'm having eye and arm twitching. I hope it goes away. I worry about it turning into tremors. Glad to hear I'm not the only one going crazy! LOL! We're all in this together.
Boshie
20 Nov 2015
I think you are living proof that the nervous system can't take sudden changes. The capsules are rapid release, and it calms down every nerve in your body. Some nerves need to move at a rapid rate. The hypothalamus gland has to send hormones quickly down the pituitary tract, with dendrites nerves. I developed a sudden blockage at that connection. I had a normal neurological exam, 3 months before I took gabapentin. That is where the endocrine system is connected to the nervous system via the pituitary gland. (Hypophysis). Only one neurologist recognised that I exhibited ballism, dyskinesia, and choreo. I had an adverse reaction, which isn't common. Only reduce this drug with a physician's advice.
Related topics
peripheral neuropathy, tic disorder, fibromyalgia, neuralgia, gabapentin, chronic pain, tremor, doctor, neuropathic pain
Further information
- Gabapentin uses and safety info
- Gabapentin prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Gabapentin (detailed)
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