How Does Gabapentin Make You Feel?

Gabapentin may have different effects, depending on the individual. When taken as prescribed, this anticonvulsant medication is generally well-tolerated. Some people experience mild to severe side effects, however. Gabapentin is increasingly being misused and can pose a threat to recreational users, especially when combined with other substances such as opioid drugs.

The way gabapentin makes you feel could depend on whether or not you experience mild to severe side effects of the drug. Talk to your doctor before taking gabapentin to gauge your risk of unwanted side effects. 

You should also tell your doctor about any other drugs or medications you’re currently taking, including any recreational substances, prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and even vitamins and supplements, as some of these may interact with gabapentin. 

What Is Gabapentin?

Gabapentin is a prescription drug approved by the Food & Drug Administration to treat seizures, partial seizures, and nerve pain resulting from shingles (also known as postherpetic neuralgia). It is sometimes prescribed off-label to treat other conditions such as nerve pain resulting from diabetes, as well as restless legs syndrome. 

This medication is part of a class of drugs known as antiepileptics. It is available in various formulations, including both immediate-release and extended-release versions. Brand names of gabapentin include Gralise, Horizant, and Neurontin. [1]

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency hasn’t classified gabapentin as a controlled substance at the federal level. However, some states, including Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia, have regulated it due to its potential for abuse and addiction. [2]

If your doctor recommends a prescription for gabapentin, be sure to tell them about any history of drug or substance use disorder. These risk factors could make you more vulnerable to any addictive properties of the drug. 

Side Effects of Gabapentin

Gabapentin has been linked to some unwanted side effects. These side effects may be mild or serious. 

Common Side Effects of Gabapentin

People taking gabapentin have reported common side effects such as: [3]

• Fever
• Chills
• Sore throat
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Trouble talking
• Tremors
• Swelling in feet or legs
• Headache
• Fatigue body aches

If these gabapentin side effects become bothersome or persist for more than a few days, contact your healthcare provider. 

Serious Side Effects of Gabapentin

Some serious side effects of gabapentin have been reported, including: [4]

• Drowsiness
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Problems with balance
• Increased seizures

If you experience these serious adverse effects as a result of taking gabapentin, contact your healthcare provider right away or call 911 if necessary. 

Risks of Gabapentin

The risk of substance abuse and addiction posed by gabapentin is becoming more widely recognized. [5] There are other risks associated with this prescription anticonvulsant that should be considered as well. Some of these risks may include: [6]

• Allergic reactions
• Skin reactions
• Extreme drowsiness
• Suicidal thoughts
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Respiratory depression
• Mental health effects in children

Gabapentin is only available by prescription and, due to the risks, should only be taken under the direct guidance and supervision of a medical professional. If you have a history of breathing problems, depression, or suicidal thoughts, be sure to tell your doctor before they prescribe gabapentin. There could be other medications that are safer for you to use. 

Digging In: How Does Gabapentin Make You Feel?

Aside from experiencing specific unwanted side effects from gabapentin, some people abuse this drug because they say it causes euphoric effects. Anecdotal evidence indicates it may cause an effect similar to that of marijuana, including a feeling of relaxation and mild sedation. [7]

While there’s no evidence that gabapentin itself is addictive, it may increase the effects of opioid drugs, causing recreational drug users to combine these two substances. This is a dangerous practice that may increase the risk of a fatal overdose. [8]

How does gabapentin affect mood and emotions?

It varies. Gabapentin may affect individuals differently, including their mood and emotions. While some report that gabapentin has a pleasant, relaxing effect, the drug can cause agitation, depression, and even suicidal thoughts in others. 

Signs of Substance Use Disorder

Taking gabapentin without a prescription or mixing it with opioid drugs can increase the risk for developing a substance use disorder (SUD), a serious condition that requires professional treatment. Signs and symptoms of SUD include: [9]

• Intense cravings for the drug
• Spending an excessive amount of time obtaining the drug, using the drug, or recovering from intoxication
• Needing more of the drug to achieve the same “high” (i.e., building tolerance)
• Unsuccessfully trying to stop using the drug or limit use
• Using the drug in risky situations, such as while driving
• Using the drug repeatedly, even though it’s worsening a mental or physical health condition
• Continuing to use the drug even though it’s causing problems in relationships
• Continued use of the drug despite its making it hard to fulfill responsibilities at work, home, or school
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug

If you or a loved one is demonstrating two or more of these symptoms, it may indicate a mild substance use disorder. However, don’t delay treatment. Substance use disorders tend to progress quickly. When severe, they can be harder to treat. 

Signs of Gabapentin-Opioid Overdose

Someone who abuses opioid drugs may be more likely to experience a life-threatening overdose if they combine opioids with gabapentin to increase the effects of the opioid. Thus, if you suspect a loved one is using gabapentin, opioids, or both, it could be essential to know the signs of an overdose: [10]

• Pinpoint pupils
• Cold, clammy skin
• Bluish fingernails or lips
• Slurred speech
• Blurred vision
• Limp arms or legs
• Trouble speaking
• Vomiting
• Making gurgling or snoring sounds
• Slowed or raspy breathing
• Unresponsiveness; loss of consciousness
• Slow or faint pulse

Signs of an overdose are life-threatening and should be treated as a medical emergency. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. 

Substance Abuse Treatment

If you suspect a loved one is abusing gabapentin, opioids, or any other drug, help is available. Substance abuse and rehabilitation services save lives. With evidence-based therapies and compassionate support from trained professionals, recovery is within reach. 

Your treatment options may include medication-assisted detox, inpatient and partial hospitalization services, outpatient treatment, and relapse prevention support. Reaching out for the help you need is a brave act of self-compassion that could reap lifelong rewards.