Gabapentin is a common prescription medication used to treat various conditions, including seizures, restless leg syndrome, and unrelenting nerve pain.
Recently, gabapentin abuse has been on the rise, leading to long-term adverse health issues and even death.
While most people begin using gabapentin as a prescribed medication for a particular health condition, it can quickly lead to addiction. Those who try to quit often experience severe gabapentin withdrawal symptoms.
The good news is that detoxification from gabapentin is possible without extreme side effects.
If you or a loved one was prescribed gabapentin for long-term use or are abusing the drug and hope to stop taking it without severe withdrawal symptoms, our team of recovery specialists is here to help.
It is important to note that you should never attempt to detox alone. You should speak to your prescribing physician or a professional recovery team to detox in a healthy and effective way.
Let’s discuss gabapentin in more detail, including an answer to the question, “What are the symptoms of gabapentin withdrawal?” below.
What Is Gabapentin?
Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant prescription medication primarily prescribed to treat seizures. Its brand name is Neurontin.
Along with seizures, gabapentin can be prescribed to help with nerve pain, shingles and substance detoxification, migraines, and restless leg syndrome.
Gabapentin affects the way the central nervous system functions. Long-term use changes the chemistry of the brain.
When Gabapentin is stopped, the brain must compensate for the chemical imbalance and often struggles to regain balance. During this time, physical and neurological Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms typically occur.
Gabapentin Withdrawal Symptoms
While symptoms of gabapentin withdrawal can range from mild to severe, many people experience moderate symptoms depending on their dosage consumption, the time they’ve been taking the drug, and their detoxification method.
Before stopping gabapentin, we highly recommend a medical detoxification program to help with symptom monitoring and management.
Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms can emerge as soon as 12 hours after stopping the drug.
Common symptoms include
- anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts or actions
- agitation and restlessness
- confusion
- disorientation
- dizziness
- sweating
- fatigue or insomnia
- nervousness
- irregular heartbeat or heart palpitations
- headache
- itchy skin
- muscle pain
- tremors
- sensitivity to light
- seizures
Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms can last 3 to 7 days or longer, depending on the individual.
The best way to reduce the severity of symptoms is by tapering the dosage over several weeks under direct medical supervision.
Effective Gabapentin Withdrawal Care in Alpine, Utah
Treating addiction and withdrawal symptoms is a complex and deeply personal process that requires assistance from medical professionals.
If you or a loved one is struggling with Gabapentin addiction or withdrawal, our experienced and compassionate team at Alpine Recovery Lodge is here to provide comprehensive care as part of your personalized prescription drug addiction treatment program.
Your sobriety is our top priority. Contact us today to get the help you need now.
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