There are many reasons you may want to stop taking a medication. Maybe you’re getting unwanted side effects. Or, perhaps, it’s not working as well as you hoped. Cost or refills could be a factor, too. No matter the reason, you may understandably feel tempted to stop your medication without talking to your healthcare professional (HCP) first – but not so fast.
Some medications can be dangerous to stop abruptly. Not only could your medical condition get worse, but you could also experience problematic side effects or withdrawal symptoms. And with some medications, such as antidepressants, stopping cold turkey is riskier the longer you’ve been taking them. The dose of some medications need to be gradually lowered (tapered). Your HCP can help you with a taper plan to slowly lower your dose over a period of time. Below, we’ll talk about 10 medications that may lead to serious problems if stopped abruptly.
Gabapentin (Neurontin) is approved to treat seizures and nerve pain. It’s also used off-label to treat withdrawal symptoms in alcohol use disorder. But, you shouldn’t stop taking gabapentin suddenly. Withdrawal symptoms can start as soon as 12 hours after stopping it.
Gabapentin withdrawal symptoms occur more commonly in people taking this medication at a high dose or in those who take it for a long time. They include:
- Agitation
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Tiredness
- Sensitivity to light
- Dizziness
- Irregular heartbeat
If you’re taking gabapentin for seizures, stopping it can cause seizures to return or worsen. This is why it’s important to talk to your HCP about a plan before stopping gabapentin.
Is It Dangerous to Stop Taking Gabapentin Abruptly ?
Yes, stopping Gabapentin abruptly can be dangerous, especially if you’ve been taking it for a long time or at a high dose. It should always be tapered off gradually under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms and potential health risks.
Possible Withdrawal Symptoms
Stopping Gabapentin suddenly may lead to:
- Rebound nerve pain (if taken for pain management)
- Seizures (even in those without a history of epilepsy)
- Anxiety, agitation, or panic attacks
- Insomnia or sleep disturbances
- Sweating, nausea, or flu-like symptoms
- Dizziness and confusion
Who is at Higher Risk?
- People taking high doses for a long time
- Those with a history of seizures
- Individuals with a history of substance dependence
How to Safely Stop Gabapentin
- Consult your doctor before reducing or stopping your dose.
- Taper slowly—your doctor will create a plan to gradually decrease your dose over days or weeks.
- Monitor withdrawal symptoms and report severe side effects.
If you’re considering stopping Gabapentin, it’s best to speak with your doctor to ensure a safe and smooth transition.