There are certain side effects associated with gabapentin.
Gabapentin, like many prescription drugs, has the potential to cause some unwanted, but usually minor, side effects.
Effects of gabapentin can include:
- Drowsiness, tiredness, or weakness
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Double vision or blurred vision
- Memory problems
- Unwanted eye movements
- Nausea and vomiting
- Heartburn
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Increased appetite and weight gain
- Swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
These are only a few of the possible side effects of gabapentin use; if you experience any side effects that become severe or do not go away with time, you should contact your provider.
Gabapentin may also cause the following rare but serious side effects:
- Rashes
- Itching
- Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
- Hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Suicidal thoughts
Call your provider and get medical help right away if you experience any of these more severe side effects.
If you have been taking the medication for longer than six weeks, withdrawal symptoms could start to appear.
Additionally, the FDA advises against using anticonvulsant medications like gabapentin and pregabalin when taking CNS depressants if you already have a respiratory condition. Pregabalin or gabapentin users who also take opioids or other drugs that depress the central nervous system may experience life-threatening breathing problems.
