Gabapentin

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant drug primarily used to treat epilepsy. It is being used off-label for ME/CFS and fibromyalgia patients mostly to augment pain relief. Common brand names are Neurontin, Horizant, and Gralise. A newer, slightly different, version of gabapentin has been developed, named pregabalin.

Side Effects

Many side effects have been reported. This list is compiled by the Mayo Clinic.

More commonly ones reported are:

• clumsiness
• unsteadiness, and continuous, uncontrolled, back-and-forth, or rolling eye movements

More commonly one reported in children are:

• aggressive behavior or other behavior problems
• anxiety
• concentration problems and change in school performance
• crying
• depression
• false sense of well-being
• hyperactivity or increase in body movements
• rapidly changing moods
• reacting too quickly, too emotional, or overreacting
• restlessness
• suspiciousness or distrust

Less commonly ones reported are:

• black, tarry stools
• chest pain
• chills
• cough
• depression, irritability, or other mood or mental changes
• fever
• loss of memory
• pain or swelling in the arms or legs
• painful or difficult urination
• shortness of breath
• sore throat
• sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth
• swollen glands
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Learn more

• Nov 9, 2016, Gabapentin Side Effects: The Dangers Of Off-Label Prescriptions’ Surprising Side Effects, by Samantha Olson
• 2016, Gabapentin (Neurontin) for ME
• June 07, 2004, When drugs are used off-label, by Daniel Costello

See also

• Fibromyalgia
• Pregabalin
• Baclofen

adverse reaction Any unintended or unwanted response to a treatment, whether in a clinical trial or licensed treatment. May be minor or serious.

adverse reaction Any unintended or unwanted response to a treatment, whether in a clinical trial or licensed treatment. May be minor or serious.