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A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Ottawa, ON

I have read that Gabapentin is prescribed off label for anxiety disorders. Does anyone have anxiety and find that Gabapentin helps enough on its own? As effective as an antidepressant?

August 25, 2015
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Answer Summary

Members shared mixed experiences regarding whether gabapentin helps with anxiety, with most agreeing it is primarily effective for nerve pain... Read more

Members shared mixed experiences regarding whether gabapentin helps with anxiety, with most agreeing it is primarily effective for nerve pain and seizures rather than anxiety itself. Several members noted that while gabapentin did not directly reduce their anxiety or work as well as dedicated anxiety medications like Xanax or clonazepam, some found indirect relief when pain reduction led to lower anxiety levels. A recurring theme was the medication's sedating zombie-like effect and the insight that managing pain can naturally ease anxiety for those whose stress is triggered by physical discomfort.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Something just occurred to me. I don't know about other pain sufferers, but I personally get anxious when my pain level increases. The higher the pain, the higher the anxiety. When the pain reduces, so does the anxiety. So....while not clinically a medication for anxiety, Gabapentin could help prevent onset of anxiety if pain is the trigger to the anxiety.

September 4, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Hmmm, can't find an edit button, so I will add my comment here. I forgot to say the Gabapentin is very effective in reducing my pain.

August 26, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Hi Cindy.
When my Doc suggested the Gabapentin I read as much information as I could on it, which is why I was surprised when others mentioned anxiety.
Perhaps there is a difference between country's ?
What it really comes down to, is : If it works for you, then use it as a positive.

August 26, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Gabapentin is often given for seizures and nerve pain such as neuralgia. I have never seen it given for anxiety. I never thought it helped with pain very much until my neurologist changed my meds a while back. I felt like I was dying of pain and he put me back on it. I take 600mg twice a day along with Motrin,
a muscle relaxer and pain pills as needed. AND I can relate to the zombie feeling. I sleep more than I'm awake.

August 26, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes n I take it n it helps alot! 2 a day! I had anxiety n panic attacks but the GABAPENTIN I quit driving even!

August 25, 2015

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