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Gabapentin use

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Holytiger
Holytiger

I agreed with my doctor to cut down on the amount of Gabapentin I was taking (2× 300mg, 3 times a day) as I didn't think it was giving me much relief. So I cut down one capsule every four days. I had got down to three capsules a day, and then last night I had awful pain seeming to affect virtually the whole of my left side. This morning I have started to increase the dose again so that the pain down my left side will be at least almost bearable. Has anyone got any suggestions? Is four days cutting down the dose too short a time, the pharmacists suggested this regime, but everyone is different.

0 likes, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • maggie301017
    maggie301017 Holytiger

    Posted

    I would suggest a much slower reduction regime to give your nerves time to adjust. For example reduce by one capsule every other day and change every week: -

    week 1 : current dose 6 capsules per day

    week 2 : alternate 5  or 6 capsules every other day

    week 3 : 5 capsules per day

    week 4 : alternate 4 or 5 capsules every other day

    and so on until you reach the point where your body will tell you ( as it may already have done) when it needs a coverage dose.

    I am on Lyrica ( gabapentin) and I tried to reduce my dose - I went cold turkey and it was terrible so I do sympathise. These are powereful Central Nervous System drugs and take a while for  your body to tolerate them, so its equally as important to reduce the dose very slowly

  • price6209
    price6209 Holytiger

    Posted

    Have you had an MRI? You need to find out the cause and treat it, but not with drugs, just a bandaid, my doc tried the same at first, but poor results, epidurals helped for a while but don't last and it is a temporary fix. See a Neuro surgeon.

    • Holytiger
      Holytiger price6209

      Posted

      I had an MRI scan which only showed age related change. I am waiting to see some one at a pain clinic. That may be several weeks away. The Gabapentin gave only mild relief, physio hasn't helped or acupuncture. However I am determined to get on with life even if I have pain.

  • karen02354
    karen02354 Holytiger

    Posted

    I’m on max dose and to be honest only take edge off... symptoms awful too. Best weaning off over a few weeks according to my doc. Then if you start again, will likely get short term benefits. Good luck with it all.
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