Gabapentin is a prescription drug that is often used to treat nerve pain, seizures, anxiety disorders, and sometimes restless leg syndrome. Many people believe gabapentin is safer than other controlled substances, but long-term or high-dose use can lead to physical dependence, which is a legitimate concern.
Anyone who wants to stop or cut back on gabapentin needs to know what withdrawal is, what its symptoms are, how long it lasts, and how to deal with it safely.
What Does It Mean To Stop Taking Gabapentin?
Gabapentin withdrawal occurs when a person abruptly stops taking the medication or reduces the dose too quickly after long-term use. Over time, the brain adapts to gabapentin’s effects on neurotransmitters, particularly those involved in calming nerve activity. When the drug is stopped suddenly, the nervous system can become overstimulated, which can cause withdrawal symptoms.
People Who Are More Likely To Withdraw Are Those Who:
Have been taking gabapentin for at least a few months
Take higher daily doses
Have a history of drug use or anxiety disorders
Stop taking the medicine all at once, not gradually.
Common Signs of Gabapentin Withdrawal
The severity of gabapentin withdrawal symptoms can vary greatly. Some people feel mild pain, while others may have serious symptoms that need medical attention.
Signs and Symptoms
Headaches
Nausea or vomiting
Sweating
Fast heart rate
Pain or stiffness in the muscles
Shakes
Tiredness
Symptoms that feel like the flu
Psychological and neurological signs
Panic or anxiety attacks
Being irritable or angry
Can’t sleep
Sadness
Changes in mood
Confusion or disorientation
Can’t focus
Severe withdrawal symptoms (not as common)
Seizures
Seeing things that aren’t there
Very angry
Thoughts of suicide
Abrupt discontinuation increases the risk of severe symptoms, particularly in individuals who take gabapentin for seizure control.
Timeline for Gabapentin Withdrawal
The length of time it takes to get off gabapentin depends on how much you take, how long you’ve been taking it, and how your body works.
1–2 Days After Last Dose
The first signs may start
People often feel anxious, can’t sleep, or can’t sit still.
You might feel some mild physical pain.
Three to seven days
During this time, symptoms are at their worst.
Mood swings, nausea, sweating, and being irritable may get worse.
Sleep problems happen a lot.
1 to 2 Weeks
Many symptoms get better over time.
Energy levels may remain low during this period.
Anxiety may last longer but get better.
For a few weeks or more
Some individuals experience prolonged withdrawal, with symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, or mood changes lasting several weeks or longer.
This happens more often after using drugs for a long time or in large amounts.
Why You Should Never Stop Taking Gabapentin Suddenly?
It can be dangerous to stop taking gabapentin suddenly, especially for people who use it to control seizures or long-term nerve pain. Stopping suddenly raises the risk of:
Seizures coming back
Severe anxiety or panic
Too much stimulation of the nervous system
Going to the hospital
Gabapentin should always be tapered under medical supervision because of these risks.
Safe Ways to Deal with Gabapentin Withdrawal
1. Tapering off slowly is very important.
Doctors usually suggest lowering the dose slowly over the course of weeks or months. A tapering schedule lets the brain slowly get used to the changes, which makes withdrawal symptoms less severe.
There isn’t a single taper that works for everyone, but most people lower their dose every 1 to 2 weeks based on how their body reacts.
2. Medical Supervision
A doctor or nurse can provide the following support:
If symptoms get worse, change the speed of the taper.
Keep an eye out for seizures or severe anxiety.
If necessary, give supportive medications.
3. Care that helps
The body needs extra care during withdrawal:
Keep drinking water
Eat meals that are balanced and full of nutrients.
Prioritize good sleep hygiene
Don’t drink alcohol or take stimulants.
4. Help with mental health
Counseling or therapy can help you deal with anxiety, mood swings, and emotional pain while you’re going through withdrawal. You can also use relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and gentle yoga.
Is Gabapentin a drug that people get addicted to?
Gabapentin is not a traditional addictive drug like opioids or benzodiazepines, but it can make people physically dependent on it. Dependence means that the body gets used to the drug and reacts badly when it is taken away.
It’s Important To Make This Distinction:
Addiction is when you can’t stop using something even though it hurts you.
Physical dependence means withdrawal symptoms may occur when the medication is stopped.
Even if you’re not addicted, withdrawal can still be painful or dangerous.
When to Get Medical Help?
If you have any of the following symptoms, get medical help right away:
Seizures
A lot of confusion or seeing things that aren’t there
Suicidal thoughts
Chest pain or very bad panic attacks
You need to get help right away for these symptoms; you shouldn’t try to handle them on your own.
Last Thoughts
Gabapentin withdrawal is real, but it can be safely managed with appropriate medical guidance. Many people can safely take gabapentin, but stopping it suddenly after using it for a long time can cause bad or even dangerous symptoms.
A slow, supervised taper with emotional and physical support is always the safest way to go. Talk to a doctor before you or someone you care about stops taking gabapentin.
With the right support, recovery from gabapentin withdrawal is possible, and the nervous system can gradually return to normal function.