adverse reaction to gabapentin

I have recently had to come off gabapentin 3 x 300mg ad day for facial nerve pain. I had to stop them abruptly on doctors advice as I was suffering breathing problems, that was 3 weeks ago and I am still having withdrawal syptoms (symptoms), anxiety and pain, has anybody had the same problem, does anybody know how long these symptoms go on for.many thanks

[mcamp]

hi teddybear106,

I was out of it once by accident and I know what your going through sorry. they will eventually stop, you will just have to ride it out shouldn't take that long though. I currently take gabapenten and topamax, and missing topamax is worse I think than withdrawl (withdrawal) from the gabapenten. but hang in there it will stop soon, I think it runs about 4 to 6 weeks... so your almost done

[mcamp]

hi teddybear106,

I was out of it once by accident and I know what your going through sorry. they will eventually stop, you will just have to ride it out shouldn't take that long though. I currently take gabapenten and topamax, and missing topamax is worse I think than withdrawl (withdrawal) from the gabapenten. but hang in there it will stop soon, I think it runs about 4 to 6 weeks... so your almost done

[teddybear106]

Thanks for your reply, I feel better now i know that someone else has been through the same, when you ask the doctor, they don't seem to understand.

[Dr Sharma]

Hi there.  Withdrawal symptoms are seen if gabapentin is discontinued abruptly. These are usually anxiety, diaphoresis, irritability, agitation, confusion, and status epilepticus.  The symptoms that are associated with gabapentin withdrawal tend to mimic some of those associated with ethanol and benzodiazepine withdrawal, possibly because gabapentin augments GABA levels like these. If you are suffering and it is affecting your daily life, consult your neurologist for reinitiating of the drug and then tapering it down and stopping gradually. Take care.

[teddybear106]

I thankyou for your reply, and I am glad to say that I am feeling a little better today, although not normal. I could not go back on this drug as I was in a lot of distress with breathing problems. I feel that I can cope a little better with everyday life, and as I understand the withdrawal symptoms will go away soon. Thanks again.