Forum / Anxiety

Gabapentin sutff ngl

KindSky147G
Feb 14

hey gyus

my dad died in march 2022. really hit me hard. then got a heart condition needing a stent. couldn't afford it cuz insurance refused to pay. used my savings, which is low now. also split up with my thai gf which made me more depressed.

was drinking way too much. tried topamax but felt kinda out of it and anxious. stopped after a month. did somme research on gabapentin cause heard it helps anxiety and sleep and drinking less.

started with 300mg once a day for 3 days, now taking 600mg daily (2 x 300mg morning and night). also take clonazepam.5 mg twice daily.

anyone tried gabapntin? how long did it take to feel better? what dose did u end up on?

the normal dose is like 900mg a day but no info on when u can increase from 600mg. help appreciated

thanks

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7 Replies

BrightVale789G
Feb 18

Hey, just saw your post, and honestly, I feel for you. It's tough reading about everything you've been going through.

I can talk a bit about Gabapentin since chronic back pain has been my thing for over two decades. My doc started me on Baclofen and Gabapentin to help with the pain-it was like finding a little ray of hope when nothing else worked. I take 2400 mg of Gabapentin daily, split into four in the morning and four at night, along with Clonazepam (four.5mg doses) and other meds for sleep.

Every six months or so, my doc does blood tests to make sure everything's okay. Once they caught that my Thyroxine levels were low a few years back-I was put on a small dose of thyroid medication ever sine. The good news is, I've never had any trouble with the Gabapentin. Your doctor should be able to help you out if it's right for you too.

Make sure your stomach's protected though-Omprazole has been a lifesaver for me because it stops ulcers from forming. Also, don't forget Lactulose-it really helps when you need to go!

If you have any more questions about the meds I'm on or anything else that might help, feel free to ask-I'll do my best to share what I know.

Stay strong, and remember every little bit counts, even if it's just knowing someone's been there. You got this, for real.

StillStar311G
Mar 16

Hey there-thanks a bunch for getting back to me! I mean, honestly, it's super appreciated.

LightWell523G
Apr 1

Hi there,

I hpe you don't mind if I ask some questions. I mentioned titration and how quickly one can increase their dosage, but maybe you didn't start at 2400mg daily right away?

How did you gradually increase your dose? And do you remember when the gabapentin started to help with any effects?

I'm trying it for off-label use-insomnia and alcoholism. I just want to know how quickly it might work, if that makes sense.

You mentioned taking 4 x 0.5 clonazepam. Is that in split doses throughout the day?

Sorry for asking so many questions-I've been in contact with a local Thai psychiatrist, but they're not very helpful when it comes to these issues.

I also tried contacting AA,but their focus on prayer didn't work for me since I'm agnostic. They suggested going to a detox facility, which I can't afford.

My alcoholism has really taken over my life, and I'm trying everything possible to get better.

From what I've read, gabapentin seems like it could help with both insomnia and alcoholism. But I wonder how quickly the titration process should go?

Maybe you didn't start at 2400mg daily from day one? Some sources say about 900mg daily for mood swings, insomnia, and alcoholism.

I'm curious if you have any advice on managing tasks while taking this dose. Does it make you very tired?

Right now, the gabapentin isn't helping at all. I haven't discussed this much with my psychiatrist since he prescribed topamax instead.

Topamax actually made my insomnia worse, so I ended up drinking more to sleep. It's a tough cycle.

I missed my follow-up appointment because of the cost. Why pay for a consultation if they can't offer real help?

I'm really struggling physically and emotionally right now.

Fingers crossed that gabapentin might make a difference soon.

From what I've read, it usually takes at least a month to see any benefits from gabapentin. How long did it take for you to notice changes?

Sorry again if my questions are repetitive or too much.

Thanks,

AnonymousG
Apr 20

It's good to hear from you. I said I would try to assist, and I meatn it. It must be quite costly to see him again.

I understand this can be challenging, but I hope things improve for you. When my pain clinic GP first prescribed me Gabapentin at 2400 mg due to the intensity of my pain, they also gave me Clonazepam because it is a muscle relaxant and helped with sleep.

The Clonazepam is divided into four doses at night, while I take other medications during lunchtime or when needed if the pain becomes too severe. These additional drugs are strronger controlled substances for chronic pain management. Both the Gabapentin adn Clonazepam should help you sleep, but remember not to mix them with alcohol.

I've been on this combination of medication for over 20 years now. Initially, it helped manage my symptoms effectively, though I understand your body can become accustomed to these medications over time, potentially leading to side effects. If possible, switching to Gabapentin without the risk of insomnia could be beneficial. Adding Clonazepam may also aid in getting more sleep.

If you have any concerns about changing medications or need advice on managing alcohol consumption, please feel free to ask. Lowering your drinking can make a significant difference for your health and well-being.

Let me know if you have any other questions or just need someone to talk to. Take care and stay safe.

KindSand769G
Jun 3

Thanks.
Taking gabapentin for a week with no side effects so far. Might up the dose.

Sailing is my goal but too weak and tired now.

Heavy drinking and insomnia really messed me up.

Trying to fix it.

Read gabapentin can help mood and sleep, but my low dose isn't enough.

You were prescribed high doses from start.

Based on what you said, I'll increase mine.

3x 300mg three times a day?

Can't keep living like this.

Didn't sleep at all last night.

Suicide thoughts often but can't do it.

SoftBreeze334
SoftBreeze334G
Jun 3

Oops, looks like my message cut off early. Thanks a ton, honestly!

PureTree848
PureTree848G
Jun 27

Are you okay? Didn't do anything stupid, right? You're worth more than you think. Anyone ever tell you that?

Started drinking for a reason. Why? hope you're on the right dose of Gabapentin and not overdoing it. Please let me know you're alright and needed here.

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