What sort of side-effects might occur if I am taking gabapentin?
The table below will show you some of the main side effects you might get from gabapentin.
|
Side effect |
What happens |
What to do about it |
|
COMMON (more than about 1 in 10 people might get these) |
||
|
Sleepiness |
You feel sleepy, drowsy or sluggish the next morning. |
Don't drive or use machinery. This should wear off after a few weeks. If it does not, discuss with your doctor – it may be possible to adjust the dose. |
|
Dizziness |
Feeling light-headed and faint. |
Don't stand up too quickly. |
|
Lethargy |
You feel tired all the time and don't feel like doing anything. |
Your dose may be too high. Contact your doctor to discuss this. |
|
Blurred vision |
Things look fuzzy and you can't focus properly. |
Don't drive. See your doctor if you are worried. He or she may be able to adjust your dose. You won't need glasses. |
|
Stomach upset |
This includes feeling and being sick, and indigestion. |
If it lasts for more than a week or so, see your doctor. Your pharmacist may be able to help with something for indigestion. |
|
Tremors |
Feeling shaky. |
It is not dangerous. If it troubles you, contact your doctor. |
|
UNCOMMON (less than about 1 in 10 people might get these) |
||
|
Weight gain |
Eating more and putting on weight. |
A diet full of vegetables and fibre may help prevent weight gain. See also a separate question in this section. |
|
Sore throat |
Sore throat or cough |
This should wear off. If not, mention it to your doctor next time you meet. |
|
Stammer |
Stuttering or stammer |
This should wear off. If not, mention it to your doctor next time you meet. |
|
Anxiety |
Feeling more anxious or nervous |
This should wear off. If not, mention it to your doctor next time you meet. |
Do not be worried by this list of side effects. Some people get no side effects at all and others may get some effects that are not listed in this table. Side effects tend to be worse with higher doses and also if you have kidney problems (when a lower dose is needed). Starting with a lower dose sometimes helps. If you think you might have a side effect to your medicine, you should discuss this with your doctor, nurse of pharmacist. You should also see the manufacturer's information leaflet.
Updated 12.11