Gabapentin

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Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant drug primarily developed to treat epilepsy, but now more commonly used for chronic pain.[1] It is being used off-label for ME/CFS and fibromyalgia patients mostly to augment pain relief.[2][3] Common brand names for gabapentin are Neurontin, Horizant, which is used for restless legs syndrome, and Gralise.[1] Gabapentin is very similar to Lyrica (pregabalin).[4]

Theory[edit | edit source]

Evidence[edit | edit source]

Gabapentin is one of the drugs suggested for use in people with ME/CFS to treat related pain; it is suggested in both the Canadian Consensus Criteria for ME/CFS and the International Consensus Criteria for ME.[5][6]

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Many side effects have been reported.[7][1]

More commonly ones reported are:

  • clumsiness
  • unsteadiness, and continuous, uncontrolled, back-and-forth, or rolling eye movements
  • weight gain[5]

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[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]