Uses of Gabapentin for Anxiety Disorder Treatment

Gabapentin is not the first-line treatment for anxiety because it does not have FDA approval. However, if all else fails, Gabapentin for anxiety is used because some studies suggest it is an effective treatment option. Many healthcare providers prefer antidepressant medications and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors  (SSRIs and SNRIs), as they are safe, approved, and effective.

Therapy Fleet offers exceptional online services for mental medical conditions. Our team of experienced doctors can evaluate your condition and provide a treatment plan that works for you. We offer treatment for panic attacks,  anxiety disorders, social anxiety disorders, generalized anxiety disorders, and much more.

What is Gabapentin?

Gabapentin belongs to a class of drugs called anticonvulsant/antiepileptic medication, used for treating seizure disorders and nerve pain. It has FDA approval for the same. Some other Gabapentin uses are for treating anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and much more. Although Gabapentin for anxiety is used off-label, few studies have been done that suggest it works for anxiety. However, some further research suggests it manages anxiety symptoms and panic attacks, thus offering better treatment options for the patient.

Off-label uses of Gabapentin prescriptions are for managing alcohol dependence and for hot flashes that come with menopause. Did you know in the 1970s, Gabapentin was first given initially as a muscle relaxer and later worked well for neuropathic pain and seizure disorders?

The brand names of Gabapentin iare;

1. Gralise
2. Horizant
3. Neurontin

.If you are looking for more information on the use of Gabapentin for anxiety disorder and its benefits, you are on the right page. In the following blog, we will cover everything about Gabapentin for anxiety- ranging from more about the drug itself to its benefits and much more.

Gabapentin Mechanism of Action

Studies suggest impaired functioning of GABA leads to different mental health issues like depression and panic disorder. When someone takes Gabapentin, it mimics the neurotransmitter GABA receptors found in the brain. GABA has a calming effect on the brain, thus calming the symptoms of anxiety. At this point, it is essential to understand that Gabapentin is not a synthetic form of GABA made in the lab. It only works by mimicking GABA. When in action mode, Gabapentin reduces the messages transferred between nerve cells, resulting in decreased nerve pain associated with damage to the nerve. 

Promising studies suggest that GABA has a role in treating anxiety, and further studies are ongoing to see how Gabapentin for anxiety lessens the symptoms. With this in mind, many medical professionals prescribe Gabapentin for anxiety and panic disorder, especially those people whom others treat. Antacids make the absorption of Gabapentin difficult, decreasing its efficiency.

Using Gabapentin for Anxiety Disorders

Use the medicine as directed by your healthcare professional. The dose given to you will depend on the condition, symptoms, and your response to Gabapentin. Usually, the treatment starts with the smallest dose, gradually increasing until visible results are noticed. However, if the medicine is not working at the initial dose, the doctor will increase the dose.

The prescribing doctor will discuss everything with you. Be vocal and share your concerns with them. Do not hesitate to ask about the side effects, duration of the treatment, and any alternate treatment, if required.

Duration of Gabapentin for Anxiety

Gabapentin takes time to show visible results, but it is a viable option when other treatments for anxiety and social phobia fail. The medical professional will settle on the dose that works best for you. In about three weeks, significant reductions in anxiety symptoms were noted. However, it is essential to understand that each person is different and responds accordingly to the medicine. Be patient, and keep taking the medicine as prescribed.

Gabapentin for anxiety dosage

Daily dose of Gabapentin for anxiety is between 300mg and 3600mg/day. If the doctor prescribes the higher end of Gabapentin, it will likely be divided into three portions throughout the day. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. It is a controlled substance and can lead to substance use disorder.

Can You take Gabapentin at night?

Yes. If you are using a single dose, the best time is in the evening before sleep. It helps reduce the severe unwanted side effects, as starting the dose will initially lead to tiredness.

Best Way to Use Gabapentin for Anxiety

Follow the medical advice given by your medical professional. Always use the medicine as directed, and change the dosage after consultation if needed.

Gabapentin is available in the form of a tablet, capsule, and oral solution. However, pills are prescribed for anxiety. Swallow the medicine with water on an empty stomach or otherwise.

If you regularly use antacids, take them within 2 hours (before or after) of taking Gabapentin. Antacids decrease the absorption of Gabapentin.

Side Effects of Gabapentin

All medicines have some side effects. The side effects of Gabapentin are not severe and go away once you adjust to the medicine.

In case of severe adverse reactions, visit the medical emergency room.

• Headaches
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Blurry vision
• Changes in mood
• Swelling of legs and arms
• Weight gain
• Erectile dysfunction

The symptoms mentioned above are mild. Keep taking the medicine as directed. Call your doctor if you are constantly unwell. They will adjust the dose. Providing the doctor with complete details and a medical history is crucial.

Now, let us look at some rare yet adverse side effects.

• Fever
• Suicidal thoughts
• Yellowing of skin and eyes
• Swollen glands
• Weakness and lethargy
• Unusual bruising and bleeding
• Muscle pain or weakness, with/without rash
• Vomiting or constant stomach pain and
• Hallucinations.

NOTE- call 911 in case of a medical emergency

Does Gabapentin Cause Withdrawal Syndrome?

Even if taken as directed, Gabapentin may cause dependency. People misusing the medicine or using it for recreational purposes may find it challenging to come off the medicine as they use high levels of Gabapentin. People taking daily doses of Gabapentin between the range of 400g-8000mg for a minimum of 3 weeks noticed withdrawal symptoms when they tried to stop the medicine abruptly.

Withdrawal symptoms of Gabapentin partially resemble the withdrawal effect of benzodiazepine and alcohol. The similarity occurs as all these act on GABA ( gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter in the brain.

For individuals, using Gabapentin for seizures should not stop the medicine abruptly, as it increases the frequency of rebound seizures. The withdrawal symptoms last upto ten days, starting nine at earlies) Twelve hours after stopping the medicine.

Some common withdrawal symptoms are; 

• Gastrointestinal issues
• Sweating
• Palpitations
• Tremors
• Hypertension 
• Insomnia

Gabapentin Withdrawal Treatment

Do not stop the medicine on your own once the treatment ends. Consult the doctor, as they will taper the medicine gradually to minimize the withdrawal effects, mainly if the high dose was prescribed.

The Bottom Line 

Gabapentin has FDA approval for treating seizures and nerve pain. With limited research available, Gabapentin for anxiety showed effective results. Some medical professionals prescribe it for anxiety and panic disorder when other treatments fail.

Dealing with anxiety daily makes life difficult. Sometimes, medicine alone does not work, and therapy is used simultaneously. 

If you live with anxiety, it is time to get help. Visit a health professional (psychiatrist, therapist, or primary care doctor), or contact us at Therapy Fleet. Check out our services now.

Medical Disclaimer:

At TherapyFleet, we strive to enhance the quality of life for those dealing with mental health issues. Our licensed medical professionals meticulously research, edit, and review all content before publication. Nonetheless, this information should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical guidance, please consult your physician or reach out to TherapyFleet’s qualified staff.

A promising aid in easing anxiety disorders, offering relief where traditional treatments may fall short. Embrace a brighter future with Gabapentin’s potential to calm the mind and uplift the spirit.

FAQs

Most Concerning questions regarding the use of Gabapentin for anxiety disorders;

1. Does Gabapentin for anxiety work?

Gabapentin is an antiepileptic medicine prescribed for nerve pain, restless leg syndrome, and treating seizures. However, off-label, it has shown excellent results in managing anxiety symptoms, withdrawal from alcohol, and postoperative surgery pain.

2. Why did my shrink prescribe me Gabapentin?

If your doctor has given you gabapentin for anxiety, he must have tried other treatments, too, which didn’t work for you. If given for seizures, it has FDA approval for that. It is also used for depression and bipolar disorder as it works as a mood stabiliser, too.

3. Will Gabapentin relax my mind?

Yes, it mimics the GABA neurotransmitter in the brain, which has a calming effect. Also, impaired functioning of this neurotransmitter leads to mental health issues like depression.