I wish I'd never started on Gabapentin - withdrawal hell

Hi

I hope you are all having a good day. Sorry long story.

I have compressed nerves at C4 and C6 . After much convincing the GP finally referred me for an MRI and to see a specialist was seen at the end of 2017. Advised that I could have surgery to correct which I refused instead opting to get stronger and healthier and specialist suggested amitriptyline for any bad flare ups.

The getting stronger and healthier worked until lockdown - in December 2020 I noticed my symptoms were no longer just on the right side but were now on both sides which I had been previously advised could be an indication of worsening condition.

Fast forward to February 2021 - MRI confirmed the compression at C4 (affects diaphragm and breathing) had worsened on the left side with almost no synovial fluid around the vertebrae joint. Then I was advised that the consultant (who I have never met) decided it didn't need surgery and that I can just go on pills - specifically gabapentin. I understand that owing to Covid surgery is not an option right now but he seems to have decided it is not an option at all when in 2017 if I'd said yes I would have been on the operating table within the month.

I took holidays from work to go on Gabapentin so that any side effects wouldn't impact work. It took weeks for side effects to ease. In late April I accidentally missed my evening dose as one of the kids was sick and it just went out my mind. The next six to ten hours were hell - anxious, headaches, insomnia then I realised I had missed my evening pills. I called my GP the next day and said I wanted off the tablets - I had never experienced anything like it.

I am half way through a six week tapering and the insomnia is every night, the headaches are unbearable, I cannot concentrate on work, my vision is blurry and I get dizzy spells. I landed at A&E with chest pain which was probably just anxiety. I am determined to get off these meds and I really think doctors need to explain the withdrawal symptoms when prescribing these - I wasn't asked any questions - prescription was done over the phone and half an hour later I had a controlled substance in my hands.

There needs to be accountability - the consultant hasn't even met me but felt confident giving me a drug that has seriously impacted my life.

Sorry its really just a long rant.

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