Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms are the physical and mental effects that occur when someone stops taking the drug after prolonged use.
In 2016, gabapentin became the 10th most prescribed drug in the US [1]. As prescriptions of gabapentin have increased, so too has misuse. Up to 65% of people who are prescribed the drug say they have taken higher doses than recommended [2]. Meanwhile, people with an existing substance use disorder are more likely to abuse gabapentin. More than 40% of opioid users in one study reported misusing gabapentin that had not been prescribed to them [3].
Gabapentin is addictive, and withdrawal symptoms should be managed with care to prevent harm. Know what the symptoms are, how long they last, and when help is needed.
What Is Gabapentin?
Gabapentin is a sedative that is only available with a prescription. It’s an anticonvulsant that is used to treat partial seizures, restless leg syndrome, and nerve pain. Most treatments using gabapentin involve other medications.
Other names for gabapentin are:
- Neuronton
- Gralise
- Horizant
Colloquially, gabapentin is sometimes known as ‘“johnnies” or “gabbies.”
Even people who take prescribed gabapentin can develop some dependence on it. However, people who misuse gabapentin are more likely to experience withdrawal symptoms. Misuse is defined as consuming gabapentin:
- That has not been prescribed to you
- In higher doses than stated by a doctor
- More often than recommended by a doctor
- Together with other medications/drugs that are not part of your treatment plan
- For reasons other than what it’s been prescribed for
What Are Common Symptoms of Gabapentin Withdrawal?
There are a number of common signs that indicate gabapentin withdrawal. Many are similar to symptoms of benzodiazepine and alcohol withdrawal. These include [4]:
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Sweating
- Bodily aches
- Confusion
- Shaking
- Digestive problems
Cases of gabapentin withdrawal have been documented among people who consumed between 400-8000 mg every day for at least 3 weeks [5]. One case also found that withdrawal symptoms manifested as stroke-like symptoms [6].
A Timeline of Gabapentin Withdrawal
There’s no fixed timeline for gabapentin withdrawal, but based on reports, withdrawal begins, on average, after 12 hours of stopping use. Generally, the withdrawal phase lasts 1 week, but in extreme instances, it can last up to 18 weeks [7].
| Timeframe | Symptom Status |
| As soon as 12 hours after last dose | Withdrawal symptoms start |
| 12 – 48 hours | Initial symptoms show (insomnia, anxiety) |
| Day 2-3 | Symptoms peak |
| Day 7 onwards | Symptoms are either gone or alleviating |
Are Gabapentin Withdrawal Symptoms Dangerous?
Gabapentin withdrawal is mostly not considered dangerous. It can be uncomfortable and distressing, but if the person exhibits common symptoms, they will likely overcome the withdrawal phase.
That said, there are less common symptoms that can be dangerous and even life-threatening. These symptoms require immediate medical interaction:
- High blood pressure
- Sensitivity to light
- Heart palpitations
- Muscle twitching
- Restless limb movements
- Seizures
- Suicidal thoughts
If someone is mixing gabapentin with other substances, or if they have a preexisting health condition, they may be at higher risk of developing more dangerous symptoms. Research shows that more than a quarter of people who died from opioid overdose had gabapentin in their system [8].
Who Should Seek Help For Gabapentin Withdrawal?
Anyone who is lowering or stopping gabapentin use should do so with medical supervision. Going through withdrawal alone removes essential knowledge and resources that can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms, take action in an emergency, and lower the chances of relapse.
People who are especially vulnerable during gabapentin withdrawal include those:
- With a history of substance abuse
- Taking co-medications
- Who are elderly
- With psychiatric conditions
Medical withdrawal support also tends to integrate evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), which are proven to build healthy coping strategies and facilitate abstinence from substances [9][10].
Independent withdrawal can foster the ‘kindling phenomenon.’ If a person experiences unsuccessful withdrawal alone multiple times, their withdrawal symptoms could become more severe with each attempt [11].
Find Support at Red Rock Recovery
Substance use disorder can feel insurmountable, but Red Rock Recovery Center is here to help you begin your recovery journey.
We have licensed medical professionals to make withdrawal as comfortable as possible. We can lower symptoms, use Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT) where appropriate, and provide evidence-based therapies that support long-term healing. We are non-judgemental, compassionate, and community-driven.
Our center is located close to Denver, Colorado, and we are committed to making substance abuse support accessible and accurate.
Get your health back. Speak with our admissions team about withdrawal treatment.
Sources
[1] Reynolds, K. et al. (July 2019). Trends in gabapentin and baclofen exposures reported to U.S. poison centers. Clinical Toxicology. Volume 58.
[2] Smith, R. et al. (August 2017). Gabapentin misuse, abuse, and diversion: A systematic review. Addiction.
[3] Buttram, M. Kurtz, S. (August 2020). Descriptions of Gabapentin Misuse and Associated Behaviors among a Sample of Opioid (Mis)users in South Florida. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs.
[4] Mah, L. Hart, M. (September 2013). Gabapentin Withdrawal: Case Report in an Older Adult and Review of the Literature. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
[5] See, S. et al. (June 2011). Akathisia induced by gabapentin withdrawal. Sage Journals.
[6] Rothka, A. et al. (June 2023). Gabapentin withdrawal masquerading with stroke-like symptoms. PM&R. Volume 16. Issue 3.
[7] Drugs.com. (May 2024). How long does gabapentin withdrawal last? drugs.com.
[8] Stein, M. et al. (December 2019). Prescribed and non-prescribed gabapentin use among persons seeking inpatient opioid detoxification. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment.
[9] McHugh, R. et al. (September 2011). Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders. Psychiatric Clinics of North America.
[10] Dimeff, L. Linehan, M. (June 2008). Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Substance Abusers. Addiction Science and Clinical Practice.
[11] Becker, H. (1998). Kindling in Alcohol Withdrawal. Alcohol Health & Research World.