May also cause false-positive results on some urinary protein tests. There have been some reports of gabapentin misuse and abuse, particularly in people with a history of drug abuse. Be alert for this possibility. Gabapentin requires three times daily administration because of its short duration of effect. Some gabapentin side effects will go away with continued use. But there can be serious ones that require immediate medical care, including clumsiness, unsteadiness, and uncontrolled eye movements. Common side effects that usually don’t need medical attention include: blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue. Primarily, you should avoid mixing gabapentin with substances that increase drowsiness or have potentially dangerous interactions. This includes: Alcohol: Combining alcohol with gabapentin can significantly intensify the side effects of both substances. Gabapentin is not typically associated with constipation, but some individuals may experience it. Dietary and lifestyle changes, such as increased fiber and fluids, can help manage it. Strategies for managing side effects include dietary adjustments, hydration, exercise, and consult a healthcare provider for persistent or severe symptoms. I have had problems with constipation from taking Gabapentin too. Along with many other side effects. I’ve been taking it for 8-9 years. I am drowsy and weak all the time and I can’t do much of anything. I take magnesium and probiotics and they are both helping me to be regular. I am tapering off Gabapentin slowly now at 10% every 12-14 days. Does Gabapentin Cause Constipation? Gabapentin constipation is a common side effect reported by numerous trusted and reputable websites. According to the website Drugs [2], “Gabapentin can cause constipation, but it is not commonly reported in everyone taking the medication. This medication may cause accidental overdose and death if taken by other adults, children, or pets. To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired: Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Gabapentin may cause constipation, but it is not a common side effect. In clinical trials of adults taking gabapentin for nerve pain, only about 4% of people reported constipation. Some people in these trials took an inactive medicine (placebo). The use of gabapentin, even when used correctly, may cause some side effects. Usually, the side effects are minor and tolerable. But, sometimes, they may be more serious. Constipation caused by gabapentin is pretty rare. Clinical trials have shown it to be a rare side effect of taking gabapentin and may go away as your body adjusts to taking the drug. -Initial dose: 300 mg orally on day one, 300 mg orally 2 times a day on day two, then 300 mg orally 3 times a day on day three-Maintenance dose: 900 to 1800 mg orally in 3 divided doses; the dose may be increased up to 1800 mg/day. Dosages up to 2400 mg/day have been well tolerated in long term clinical studies. Experts believe gabapentin may cause brain cells to produce more of a chemical called GABA, which reduces abnormal electrical activity of brain cells. In people experiencing nerve pain after having had shingles, gabapentin is thought to change the way pain signals are sent through the body and brain. Increasing fruits, vegetables and fiber intake may ease constipation. If dietary changes are unsuccessful, consider trying an over-the-counter stool softener such as Colace. Remaining in an upright position for at least 30 minutes following meals can help prevent heartburn. Additionally, gabapentin can cause multiorgan hypersensitivity or DRESS syndrome, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention if symptoms such as rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, or liver problems occur.Consulting with a healthcare professional and being aware of the potential risks and benefits of gabapentin are important 100 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg, 450 mg, 600 mg, 750 mg, 800 mg, 900 mg oral tablets; How should I store gabapentin? Gabapentin can cause allergic reactions, including DRESS, which can be serious Gabapentin may cause vision changes, clumsiness, unsteadiness, dizziness, drowsiness, sleepiness, or trouble with thinking. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert, well-coordinated, or able to think or see well . When you stop taking gabapentin, you'll need to reduce your dose gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Do not stop taking gabapentin without talking to your doctor. Talk to your doctor if you're concerned about becoming physically dependent on gabapentin. Other side effects. These are not all the side effects of gabapentin. While less common than diarrhea, constipation has also been observed with gabapentin use. Constipation involves infrequent, difficult passage of hard, dry stools. Gabapentin may cause constipation by slowing down GI motility and intestinal contractions. Some side effects of gabapentin may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Gabapentin side effects are usually mild, and they may be less common with gabapentin ER forms. Examples of mild side effects that can happen include: Vertigo (dizziness) Feeling fatigued or sleepy. Fluid retention. Trouble balancing or controlling movement. Diarrhea or constipation. Nausea and vomiting. Brain fog. Headache. Weight gain. Dry mouth
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