Gabapentin Ruined My Life
Gabapentin (Neurontin) is FDA approved for use in the treatment of epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and fibromyalgia. However, many people have reported using it off-label to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia, and even addiction. Is it safe? Can you get addicted? What side effects should I expect? Let’s find out!
What is Gabapentin? Gabapentin is a medication that was originally developed to help patients who suffer from seizures. It works by blocking certain neurotransmitters in the brain, including glutamate and GABA. These neurotransmitters are responsible for transmitting messages between nerve cells. When they block these signals, the patient experiences less seizure activity. How does Gabapentin work? The exact mechanism behind how Gabapentin works is not fully understood. Scientists believe that it may act by binding to specific receptors in the brain. Once bound, it prevents the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, which reduces the amount of electrical activity in the brain. Is Gabapentin addictive? There is no evidence to suggest that Gabapentin is addictive. In fact, some studies show that it actually decreases withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid addiction. If you do experience any withdrawal symptoms while taking Gabapentin, try reducing your dose until you feel better. Side Effects & Safety Concerns While Gabapentin is generally considered to be safe, there are still some safety concerns that need to be addressed. One of the biggest concerns is the risk of developing kidney stones. Patients who take Gabapentin are at higher risk of developing kidney stones than those who don't take it. Other possible side effects include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. If you are currently taking Gabapentin and experiencing any of these symptoms, stop taking it immediately and contact your doctor. You may want to consider switching to another anticonvulsant drug if you are having trouble controlling your seizures. |