The third generation antiepileptic, gabapentin, is a structural analogue of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is an important neurotransmitter of central nervous system. It is used to treat partial epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and movement disorders, as well as a variety of psychiatric conditions such as bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, and alcohol addiction. Currently it is accepted to possess a potential for abuse and addiction. In this study, we present a case of a woman with depression who had been using a high dose gabapentin treatment for neuropathic pain due to spinal surgery performed 3 years before. Here, we highlight the withdrawal symptoms following the termination of gabapentin, and their treatment. The symptoms of varying severity in gabapentin withdrawal underline the importance of progressively decreasing the dose on a schedule of several months before ceasing the drug completely. Predisposing factors should be noted, and alternative treatment options like melatonin and mirtazapine should be considered.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.