Gabapentin withdrawal syndrome.
Gabapentin (GBP) has gained wide acceptance in the treatment of pain, migraine, bipolar illness, and epilepsy. It has a relatively benign side effect profile, lacks significant drug interactions, is not liver metabolized, and is renally excreted. Herein three cases are presented that demonstrate withdrawal symptoms after abrupt discontinuation of GBP. Clinicians are encouraged to taper GBP dosage, especially when patients have taken high doses, and to warn patients of possible adverse effects of abruptly discontinuing GBP themselves.
Norton
J W
JW
Department of Medical Psychiatry, University of Mississippi School of Medicine, Jackson, Mississippi 39212, USA.
D000085:Acetates / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000328:Adult; D000588:Amines; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001007:Anxiety / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology; D003509:Cyclohexanecarboxylic Acids; D000077206:Gabapentin; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008881:Migraine Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology; D011595:Psychomotor Agitation / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology; D005680:gamma-Aminobutyric Acid
D000085:Acetates; D000588:Amines; D000927:Anticonvulsants; D003509:Cyclohexanecarboxylic Acids; D005680:gamma-Aminobutyric Acid; D000077206:Gabapentin