@@DrAndreaFurlan I am Canadian and I have been taking Gabapentin/ Neurontin foe close to 16 years for nerve pain in my spine relating to Degenerative Disc Disease. So obviously it has been approved here for that purpose at least that length of time. In addition, I am also aware of it being used for one of my patients 20 years ago for nerve pain related to Shingles. It may also be used to treat seizure activity.
Gabapentin has been life changing for me. I had generalized anxiety and panic for over 30 years and had a mental breakdown 9 months ago. I went on gab + lamotrigine and felt better in days. I don't have anxiety now. Obviously my results are not typical but someone should do studies on gab for treating GAD since it works very well for some people. I'll add that it also stopped my nighttime itching which often kept me up for hours at night.
For what turned out to be Diabetic nephropathy, I felt like I was run over by a truck, then set on fire. I was give Oxycontin, which did nothing for me. Gabapentin allowed me to crawl off my sofa, out of my painful fetal position, into a normal life. I am forever grateful for this medication.
I came across this video by accident but I’m so glad I did. I was recently given a prescription for gabapentin without any further advice, after reading the side effects and listening to this video I will not be taking it.
I was on the max+ Gabapentin dose for nearly 6 years after a cervical surgery due to stenosis. I ended up having a C3 to C7 fusion. Even with this high dose it was not enough. My neuropathy had only slightly been less frequent by 20-30%. On top of that I was on a huge number of meds. For the last 3 years I’ve been off Gabapentin and all the other cocktails. To my physicians amazement cannabis became my main way of medicating. Happy to have a great quality of life!!! Thank you!!! I love all your videos I’ve been watching because you explain very well. ⚕️👩⚕️
Mike, every time I try weed, edibles or other, I get nervous and my pain is more intense, I would love to get off the drugs I’m on, what type do you use?
Mike, every time I try weed, edibles or other, I get nervous and my pain is more intense, I would love to get off the drugs I’m on, what type do you use?
@@michelleyoung2879 Hi Michelle, my experience was the same. Would you please like to share with me if you had the weed together with your regular medication? I think perhaps that I need to taper off my medications, then start the CBD, but I'm afraid. What do you think? Have you heard anything about this? Thank you, best wishes.
Dr. Andrea, you a a gift, the gift of knowledge, "going to the point", clear, clear explaining of "the science within all of us". Thank you for sharing your tremendous gift with the rest of us. Without a doubt you are the most forthright and thorough doctor in the web.
I have extremely terrible sciatica and also suffer from anxiety. I’m on a decent dose of gabapentin and I find it to work great for both issues. Thank you for sharing this video 🙏❤️
I’ve been paralyzed from the chest down for the last 19 years. Neuropathic pain is absolutely horrible and Gabapentin has been a life saver. Never had a bad reaction as long as I don’t miss a dose. Withdrawals feel like a bad flu
I took it for many years with neurophathy.. in both feet.. from back surgery due to sciatic nerve..problems,, it just numbed my feet...hated it. I talked to one guy, who got off Gabapentin,, he said,, I will live with the pain.. so I decided to do that as well.. and I am feeling much better. Hated the side effects, of it..I still have pain,, and I am 67 and can't sleep unless my body has no choice.. what a life..I walk a lot to keep my feet limber..
As a long-time migraineur, I have done a lot of research on this. I do understand why these neuroactive medication are given with other pain medicines. I took topiramate for years along with "real" pain medications for prophylactic migraine treatment. Fine. Now let's move on to the surgeon who replaced my hip was very stingy with adequate pain management. Instead, he wasn't too keen on good pain medicine. As my narcotic ran out & I was so much in pain, he only prescribed gabapentin. Gabapentin alone for pain was worthless.
I know how that is. I too was given inadequate pain medication. It was torture if you ask me and the doctors have no sympathy. So sorry you had to endure that.
AMEN ! I'm on 3600 mg a day of this stuff bc I refused any pain meds stronger than T3 , (which is nothing really, I know). I have TIAs, sciatica, diabetes and so on . I refused strong pain meds bc a pain clinic put me on 68 mg of dilauded a day and it stole 2 years of my life. I withdrew cold turkey....DO NOT DO THAT ! NEURONTIN is a life saver for me bc of a proper diagnosis but I don't get being addicted to it : I know that happens, sadly. This is the best medical video I have watched on this medication . All of the comments are great as well. Thank you SO much, Doctor. Be well everyone and God bless. .
I really feel for anyone who has to suffer without adequate pain medication. I truly believe that it's the most inhumane thing they're doing to us! I've still got another week n half before I have surgery to remove a couple discs from my spine. They won't give me anything at all. They say to keep taking the Advil & Tylenol until 5 days before my surgery. I'm suffering so bad, I really don't know how much more I can take. So much more is involved in the pain I have, other than the neck/spine pain. So cruel & they just don't care. 😭
I was taking Gabapentin for neuropathy. After a couple of years I began to develop Parkinson symptoms including tremors and seizures. After a complete neurological workup, it was determined it was the Gabapentin. Once I was weaned off of it, the Parkinson symptoms disappeared. That was about 2 years ago, and so far I those symptoms have not returned.
I take 1800 mg per day. 600 mg morning noon and evening. If I don’t take it or when getting close to the hour I should take it I feel pain. But you are right. It doesn’t necessarily help with sleep. And when I get proper rest, I also feel much less pain. I started taking a very low dose cannabis gummy at night (5 mg THC and hull spectrum). It helps me a lot in my overall pain management. Taking anything more (gabapentin or gummies) has a negative effect. I also avoid alcohol and caffeine. I am starting to do exercises and resting positions for spinal stenosis and they are helping tremendously. Thank you!! I still have a terrible time sitting which I think has more to do with back issues than finding the correct cushion. I have a back support which helps occasionally but not always. If you have any videos for people with unbearable pain when sitting I would appreciate hearing from you. Congratulations! You are the best most intelligent MD and PT on the internet.
She has wonderful short presentations on variety medical topics, esp. from a medical doctor. She is always concise, on the point and direct. There are no needless narrations, and ego display, like all other presentations. Please keep on your great helpful advice, and Thank you
That is great to hear. Please share this video with your friends. I have lots of videos about chronic pain in my channel ua-cam.com/users/DrAndreaFurlan And don't forget to turn on the notifications 🔔
I tried Gabapentin for six months for sciatica, which I've had since I was twelve, and it did nothing. I know many people who swear by it. A low dose of Baclofen works for me. I'm pre-med, so I realize that the two drugs are in different classes (muscle relaxer versus anticonvulsant), but it always fascinates me how every person's body is so different. I'm studying for a pharmacology exam, so I will watch all of these. Learning about the intricacies about the human body and mind is endlessly thrilling. Thank you for these videos. I look forward to watching all of them.
This was interesting. I’m currently on Gabapentin For Anxiety and Alcohol cravings. I take 300 mg 3 times per day. I was tired the first few days and my body adjusted right after that.
Same here. It was the tiredness that got me after I started Gabapentin but soon I got used to it and sometimes i just feel like I'm walking on a cloud.
Was on very high doses of pain killers for the past 20 years (old Vietnam-era service injuries) and had a very bad back, cancer, surgery, etc. Recent advances in medicine have almost totally relieved the pain, so I self-managed medication reductions down to a minute dose; however, I couldn’t seem to get past this last little bit to get completely prescription RX free. My Dr then prescribed a low, then slightly higher dose of Gabapentin. Thank God he did! Now, my withdrawal symptoms are reduced and I’m sure I can soon wean myself completely off the meds. Only side effect is a slight drowsiness when I get up in the morning but I can easily overcome that. Just wanted to help any others on the fence about this.
I suffer from episodes of Trigeminal Neuralgia and Gabapentin is a true godsend! I don't have to take it often, but I am always extremely grateful for it when I need it...great information, thank you!
I also suffer fro.the same pain. It is in my face . The worst pain I have ever had ,that's even worse than when I had a cucerium when I had my twins and the Doctor forgot to leave an order for pain medication. It was New Years Eve and It took them 20 min. To locate him for the order . I was cut up and screaming at the top of my lungs . The nerve pain is 100 times worst and I'm not being melodramatic . I belive that why it's called the $ @#$ide nerve . Some who cant find relive end it within 2 years . I thank God for this medication. I dont have chronic pain but when I start feeling the Taser pain I'm glad I have it .
I'm in Canada, Ontario and Gabapentin is widely approved and used for nerve pain. In fact more often than for seizures. Many of us have been on it for fibromyalgia , diabetic nerve pain lupus nerve pain etc. Drs here rarely prescribe narcotic opioid pain relievers.
Unfortunately it can be just as difficult to come off as opiates, it’s actually compared with withdrawing from benzodiazepines. It’s no where near the magic bullet it’s marketed as, it’ll be the next big Pharma scandal in time
I take Gabapentin for chronic knee pain, 300 barely does the job. It was working better at 600. Hoping the doctor will increase it back to 600 next month
The pain relief I get in my legs, from it, is worth millions to me. People that havent experienced anything like this, has no clue. It changes the QOL you have forever.
How long did it take to kick in for you, I'm still waiting , I've been on it since middle of March? I realise it takes awhile to get into your system and that everyone reacts differently to it.
@@thebeardofgaming81 it started in my lower right back could not walk without limping, then a few days later after mopping and bringing in groceries the pain started going down my right leg all the way to my toes, my leg had shooting pain that was unbearable for me went to ER gave me shot of tremadol it didn’t work then a light dose of daladid and it eased up from a pain chart 10 to an 8 prescribed 12 norco 10/500 helped for about 4 days then shooting pain again in my leg, couldn’t get comfortable moaned and growned every breath i took so painful it’s been almost 2 weeks now and i can sleep at night but still so hard to walk especially long distances i would have to get on the ground and rest it was hurting so bad still 2 weeks later and have trouble walking
I have PTSD. Was given gabapentin for back pain, but it worked wonders on the PTSD. For the first time I felt normal again. It was like having a bandage on a cut. The gnawing, painful, persistent anxiety just stopped.
I have been taking Gabapentin for 11 years with hydocodein, I manage fine. I had knee replacement with severe nerve damage. Aside from being crippled and not driving anymore I lead a fairly normal life.
Sorry to hear about your nerve damage, I had my knees replaced last year and I have shooting pains in them at night.The Gabapentin helps me sleep through the night!! 😁😁
I take Gabapentin for back pain and I love it I was in it five years and my new insurance company wouldn’t pay for it so now that I have a new company I’m back on it. I’m hoping it also helps with the cording pain and tightness after my double mastectomy.
I took Gabapentin for a couple of weeks and one day while I was rowing around in my boat visiting my friends who live on boats one of them said to me are you back today again. Apparently I had done the exact same thing the day before, and had absolutely no memory of the five different boats I had visited. I had rowed 3 miles. And no memory of it. No Other Drugs involved. Oh so when I woke up at night it felt as though my head was in a cloud and I could not see the walls in the hallway. I was effectively night blind. I quit taking it nothing is worth those side effects. I like to remember and see the things I've done.
As for medical history, I am 69 years old I have a 22 caliber bullet stuck between my heart and my lung and it constantly moving I got that in 1982 but it's hardly noticeable, splenectomy 1978 compression fracture T4 1988 severe next sprain 1993 fractured hip 2002 broken jaw both sides with metal plates 2010 and got plain worn out by 2015 took the Social Security way out in 2018. I think I'm done working. I am trying to find a way to deal with pain oh, now attempting mindfulness oh, a baby aspirin at night, and about 2 oxycodone 10 mg perge. The pain persist in my lower back and neck and I get cramps at night from the toes up to the calf and very rarely above that. Even thinking about it is depressing take care good luck and God bless. So if you've only got one of these things I envy you.
@@box.24356 Not sure why anyone would say this or what you know about studies or where you live but you need participants signed legal consent for a study. Here in Toronto Canada where she practices MDs and researchers are held to very strict protocols. Perfect? No, but better then many countries incl the US. At the very least no way to confirm or clarify generalized info in comments incl source or accuracy. Just being real. Do some research.
Mam, what a clear narration about seizers of trigeminal neuralgia, diabetic nephropathy and others with a point to point, i love always to see your videos those are useful to do yoga as well as to use medicines dosage as how doctor explaines, because u r professional, really thanks, keep it up, namaste
Thanks for writing what I actually wanted to write. I kinda wished I’d written them words 1st myself. Thank you!!! Pssst I commented some nice words just b4 reading yours. 😃👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Been taking it for 8 years, my pain doctor left and it was up to my primary care doctor to fill the prescriptions, he will only give 1 month at a time, I do not think it has been helping for my chronic pain so I stopped taking it 2 weeks ago, I now think clearer.
This video came up… I did not look for this info…however, I sat and watched and have to say how INFORMATIVE. Thank you. I am so much wiser for watching. I have heard of this medication but now have knowledge about it.
I have been on gabapentin to treat Trigeminal neuralgia that triggers intense pain in my lower right jaw. We reached a dosage of 700 mg a day…200 a.m., 200 mg afternoon, 300 mg bedtime. Never have had any issues with it and am great full for it..
After having a total of 12 surgeries on my left which was a series of debridments; my leg was all jacked up and I had the kind of nerve pain that was just plain weird and annoyingly painful. Gabapentin has been a life saver for me. Its a powerful drug that needs to be respected and not taken lightly.
Thank you for this comment. I'm glad to hear that you improved. Please make sure you talk to your doctor. Consider subscribing to this channel. I have many other videos that you might find useful.
After a Crippling Spine Surgery I sustained Permanent Nerve Damage. I’ve been on Gabapentin for 16 year’s. I only use it when I’ve over done chores and have significant Damage (or Compression Fractures) Pain. I also have a Pain Pump, so Thankful for that ! A friend of mine had Shingles, incredible Pain. His doc prescribed Gabapentin, 100MG, not nearly enough, I take 1200MG 2 times a day if pain is at a 8-10 on a scale of 1-10 ! Pain Management Doc’s know how to prescribe, they treat MANY Pain condition’s.
I learned sooo much from this video. It does leave me with several questions, but those are best discussed with my physician. But at least I know what to ask! thank you very much Dr Furlan
This fantastic information. I have surgery Friday for my whole pelvic floor and I was prescribed this the day before and the morning of. I am so nervous to take anything and was wondering why I was prescribed it. You really put my mind at ease.
I am prescribed this medication for seizures/epilepsy and all she has said here is true . I actually went a few days without it not long ago and suffered from high anxiety and depression. I realized my mistake and all is well . Thank you for this time Dr.
I was on gabapentin for neuropathy from type 2 diabetes. Worked good except I started noticing bruising when I was barely touched. Now take pregablin, Lyrica, and it's fine no more bruising.
This medication helps with my neuropathy due to chemo treatment. I take the 100 mg every evening and I don’t have the toe cramps any longer. I tried taking B12 supplements but it only took the edge off.
Thank you for Sharing this Video I got prescribed gabopentin while admitted to hospital as I couldn't feel my top of my legs & the Drs done examinations was in hospital for 11days & found that I have sciatica & Rhumatoid Arthritis in my back which was extremely painful & now the Drs & specialists prescribed gabopentin to the highest dose that I can take Thank you for Sharing this Video 🙏👍
Dr. Andrea, Thank you. As you know, in the USA, September 2021, Gabapentin became a controlled substance. For refills, it must be at least 28 days. It is now treated like any other benzo. Strangely for me, it DOES WORK on my anxiety and insomnia! The thing is, nothing else helped me! I thought/think my doctor is a genius. I have been on 900mg. a day now for almost a year. Doctor, thank you !
DIANE DOWD please correct your info. On a Federal level gabapentin has NOT been classified as a controlled substance. However 5 states Kentucky, Virginia,West Virginia, Michigan, Tennessee have reclassified it.
They still mail mine to me. I started out with 100 mg 3 times a day for a pulmonary problem about a year ago. I have been taking 300 mg 3 times a day for about 2 months for an added neurology problem in my feet. I think I had all the side effects that have been mentioned and told my doctor that I couldn't take that much. I felt really out of it. My mother died during this time and it didn't even seem to phase me one bit. The Dr lowered my dose to 200 mg 3 times a day today and I hope that will be OK but they want me to see me most in 10 days to see if I can go back up to the 300 mg 3 times a day. Even if they say I can I'm not going to take that much again.
Yeah I began my journey with it in May 2021, but I also take it with 4mg of Tizanidine when my pain gets really bad. It really works how ever I'm developing more inflammation in my joints. It's so bad I has to be prescribed MethyIPREDNISolone for five days. I feel the difference already and I am only on day 2. I have Disk Degenerative disease in both my lower right and left side of my back and Sciatica. Was in an accident while on Active duty in the Army.
It has helped me I have had 7 surgeries and I nerves were always firing. It felt like 4th of July. So it has helped so much. Plus helps my cluster headackes.
My husband has been prescribed Gabapentin twice after two surgeries… It turned him into an emotional, blubbering, mess. It was truly heartbreaking to see. Just wanted to mention a possible side effect to watch out for.
@@coolfiredragon3253 Thank you…. He only took it for a couple days for surgery pain, he felt the emotional state it put him in wasn’t worth it. As soon as he stopped the last does, he was emotionally back to normal within 24 hours. 🥰🥰
These drugs can be depressive. I was prescribed carbamazepine and it gave me mouthsores so bad I cannot swallow anything. I suffered from terminal neuralgia, i tried acpuncture and Chinese meds. But I had to stop using all hospital prescribed meds.
I was turned into an emotional mess to..I lost my new boyfriend, he thought I was too emotional for him..and the nightmare scared the hell out of me. After all that I never had neuropathy and took that train wreck of a medication for nothing..😡
I take gabapentin for trigeminal neuralgia. I used to take it daily but I was always soooo tired ( I also take oxcarbazapine). Now I only take it when I start having severe pain. Thank you for the great info.
I always wondered if my severe cervical stenosis actually caused my bad dreams I thought maybe I’m not getting proper blood flow to my brain especially at night sleeping when I’m not moving ?
2 years ago I decided to stop messing around with all of these oral medications and had a Medtronic pain pump installed. It was truly life changing. Yes, I'm using an opiate pain medication, but I only need 1/10th of the amount I was taking prior to the pump. I don't have the need for constantly increasing doses. I am getting almost complete pain relief. I only need to go get my pump filled every 3 months. The medication goes directly into the spine and blocks the pain impulses from getting to the brain by way of spinal fluid I highly recommend doing a trial of this device to see if it fits your needs.
The meds are actually put into our cerebral fluid thru the catheter running up the spine. Because it’s delivered there we have no side effects and no reactions to the medicine so we can live our best life!
@@DrAndreaFurlan the pump is not only used for opioids I have several non class 2 meds in my pump please don’t make this miracle cure into a drug thing because it is NOT!
I found the Dulera inhaler for asthma caused Cushing syndrome which does not allow my body to absorb calcium. I have two fractures in my spine. I have since discontinued Dulera and just rely on Singular for my asthma relief medicine. Side effects can do more harm than good in some instance, but I have found gabapentin for nerve pain to be a life saver.
Thank you for watching the video and writing this comment. Please share this video with your friends. I have lots of videos about chronic pain on my channel ua-cam.com/users/DrAndreaFurlan And don't forget to turn on the notifications 🔔
I use it for diabetic neuropathy and thank God for it gabapentin and tramadol gives me about 13 hrs of pain relief from the neuropathy, and I hurt my back a number of months ago and I am thankful for it
Nope, nope, nope! I had restless arm syndrome, this med stopped my flopping around and my wife flopping legs. It ensures we have a decent nights sleep.
What dosage please? I’m nervous of gabapentin and only taking 100mg right now and also 10mg x 3 diazepam for muscle spasms. I’m in terrible pain in back, legs and hands etc. I’ve heard so many negative things about gabapentin so would welcome your experience thanks.
My neuropathic pain started after I had a stroke. Gabapentin has worked really well since then to blunt to tingling and give me better movement in my left side.
Ive taken 1 pill at night for18 yrs. Got me through night sweats, numb arms and helps me sleep deeply with no hangover. Made me sleepy during day so just one before bed.
Our old dog is on this for arthritic pain. She was previously on Previcox NSAID but it seemed to have stopped having any effect at all. She also had night time anxiety called "Sundowner's" and would frantically pace all night then sleep all day. Now, just 11 days in gabapentin has calmed her, had our first full night's sleep I months last night! And she stops panting just 20 minutes after taking the medication. I take that to say her pain subsides. I can only hope because she obviously can't talk. Our vet is on gabapentin as well as her dogs and says it's a very safe medication. I have to believe she knows best. So far it has been really good
my doctor has put me on this drug and I'm sure hope it helps.Iv heard good and bad things about it.Im taking 100mg.at night.It don't help me sleep.Thank you for the video.I understand this medicine better.
As the studies have found, it works well for some people and not at all for others. I am on 900mg daily - 3 x 300 and it has been a life saver. It does not stop all of my sciatic pain but it has really reduced the sporadic nerve impulses (electric shock like twinges) that would keep me up all night.
@@raytreat6599 started with tingling between my shoulder blades from my spine to right scapula and would then give me a little shock right down my right arm. It's now more persistent in my lower spine from lumbar down, giving the same tingling sensations across my buttocks and hips, causing my legs to twitch. Only happens when sitting or lying down.
Funny, I need to be put on this- I use to have seizures, I have severe anxiety pain in my back legs and I have hot flashes like HORRIBLY! I’ll be bringing this up to my dr!!!!
Thank you for watching the video and writing this comment. Please share this video with your friends. I have lots of videos about chronic pain on my channel ua-cam.com/users/DrAndreaFurlan And don't forget to turn on the notifications 🔔
Took Gabapentin when I was first diagnosed with the late effects of polio. When later my job was less physically demanding, my doctor took me off of them because of side effects.
I will go back for a retry.. seizures, chronic pain, diabetic neuropathy, small cell, large cell neuropathy... muscle pain??do you suggest I try this again??
Thank you for the chart suggesting how to start dosing w/gabapentin. I was prescribed 300mg 3 times/day, started at night because got it from pharmacy late in day. TOO much for me. Asked doctor for change to 100mg. He agreed. Will send him your charts. It’s for chronic pain, lumbar spine. Not much help yet- 6 days only. I don’t tolerate meds very well, but will give it continued try.
@@DrAndreaFurlan hi, does it take time to work or does it work soon after taking it?, I've been prescribed this for sciatica by my Dr..haven't started it yet though.
Yesterday my ortho sugeon prescribed me dubinar gel with gabapentin.... Im on that for shoulder pain.... And this video gave me an insight into the way the gel worked... Thnx doctor
Everyone is different and reacts to Gabapentin differently as well. I took it initially for trigeminal neuralgia. Unfortunately, as in many cases it stopped working. I ended up having to tak carbamizepine which is hellishly potent, but it works. I was able to put the TN in remission by taking Metnx twice a day/every day (highly recommended). No longer have to use the carbamizepine. However, I use just 100mg gabapentin for diabetic neuralgia in my feet just before bed time. Dr. Furlan, you gave the best explanation for uses I've heard about gabapentin. Thank you so very much. You are truly outstanding! Namaste!
As I've seen,heard and experienced not all people react the same to all pain meds🤔 sounds strange but I've also heard from friends with red heads in there family that pain pills don't work as well
I got burned on my foot and had to have a skin graft. Gabapentin was a godsend! Couldn't walk without it. You need to titrate up to overcome the drowsiness side effect.
I was prescribed it for neuropathic pain, but I had to stop taking it continually because it made me so drowsy and unable to work the next day and it didn't seem to improve with time. On the flip side, if you WANT to sleep, its the best sleep inducer I've ever taken. I still take it as it does the job for the pain, but only when I don't need to do much the following morning. During the working week I take something else.
What works for me is 300mg when getting up and 600mg at bedtime. It helps considerably for diabetic pain, sleeplessness, social anxiety disorder, and especially intermittent explosive disorder. Of all my medications this one has the most noticeable beneficial effect. If I miss two or more doses, I can tell. One interesting side effect is that I dream more vividly, sometimes even lucidly.
Sometimes when I close my eyes after about half an hour of taking a dose i can see people walking around sitting and talking I can’t hear them and it’s all very much in color
Gabapentin has been a life saver for me. I had an industrial accident that crushed and degloved my right foot. The main nerve had the sheath destroyed with the rods attaching to the scar tissue which causes my pain. With the use of this drug, I am able to function. My daily dosage is 3200 mg/day taken 4 times daily.
Sorry to hear about your accident, but happy to hear it is, helping you! Congratulations! I'm reading these comments and some (to me) sound ridiculous! I'm on 600mg/day. (Should be increased, but, Dr's leary, because on Oxycodone) Been on Oxycodone for 15 yrs, never had a "problem." So sick of people saying how dangerous it is! Yes, if you don't take it "CORRECTLY!" I'm 65yrs old, fractured my back last year, but have had Chronic Migraines & fibromyalgia for 3 decades. So, I have been on Oxycodone for that long. I'm still here! I drive & do normal things. I was put on the Gabapentin for my back & fibromyalgia. Also, *forgot to mention* fell on (L) shoulder & damaged nerves & fluid buildup. Went through Occupational Therapy for "2" months, improved my mobility, but, pain still there. Anyway, tired of people telling me, it's so bad to take Oxycodone and now on Gabapentin! Put bluntly "Mind your own business!" I take as my Dr prescribed and doing just great! Had to tell "My Story." Tired of the "Oxycodone" nay sayers! If you take your meds correctly and your pain is being eliviviated, good for you!
I had terrible back pain, the type that sharp shooting pain would make me stop in my tracks. I was taking Norco, and that is 10mg of Hydrocodone with 350mg of Tylenol. They are pretty strong but it didn't work. I was set up for back surgery on bulging discs. I went for a second opinion at the Spaulding Rehabilitation and was told my MRI of my discs were very average for my age. The doctor suggested I try gabapentin and to my amazement it killed the pain much better. Eventually the sharp shooting pains went away. But it is very effective for nerve pain.
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And I as well have nerve pain called CRPS but to my front and hands and feet and does nothing for my pain. Doctors seem to be prescribing it more to limit the amount of narcotics a patient is on.
Being on neurotin several times at all doses i can say that it can help anxiety !! Usually at a moderate to moderatly high dose, same with nerve pain !! But like she said take it easy on the doses !! And to me its about as well for pain and sleeplessness as whiskey, and about as good for anxiety as a low dose of valium !! Ah yea my issues is that i was diagnosed with g.a.d., b.p.s., moderatly severe diabetic neuropathy, and sciatica, and two bulging discs in my neck !!
When I were in my Thirties My Dr, put me on gabapentin. For RLS in 2016 I fall and broke my arm. They gave me ibuprofen and a long with taking gabapentin my intestines busted. That led up too fore Surgeries one after another. After my last sugary they told me they were sorry but they had did all they could do So they told me they could only give me pain medication and do everything they could to make me comfortable too die. 'I didn't feel like God was ready for me get. So I fought hard too live and here I'am 'I know I'm a miracle! So she's right. When taking gabapentin please make sure you let your Dr. Know you're on gabapentin. Thank you this were so helpful!
I've been on Gabapentin 800 mg. since 2002. I started to have seizures after being on Amitriptyline 150mg. I'm still on it and it does help a lot of different pain. My husband finally went on because of his knees and back. He feels it taking the pain away. She knows what she's talking about.
I am the same!! The Amitriptyline almost killed me I was misjudging and would walk into walls and I fell through a glass coffee table and had seizures as well!! That's a VERY dangerous drug!! Nuerontin has been my choice over pain meds and Xanax any day!!
Gabapentin was horrible for me. After starting it, I was driving to my optician’s office and couldn’t find the parking lot, even though I’d been there dozens of times. I was driving 30 mph and felt like I was going 60. On the way home, I couldn’t remember if I could turn right on a red light until people behind me started honking. We left for vacation the next day and stopped to use the restroom. I was so dizzy in the stall that I fell back on the toilet seat. I was so dizzy walking through the store back to our car that I couldn’t do it. My husband came looking for me and had to help me back to the car because I was too dizzy to walk. I stopped taking it right then and within 2 days I was completely back to normal. Evil stuff! Never again.
Me too I was horrible I took because my doctor told me that all the can give me for my herniated disc and my neck and fibromyalgia . I've been suicidal all they want to do is give u medication to quiet ur complains
I have 100mg capsules and only take it at bedtime in order to sleep without lower back pain. If I take it 3 days in a row, my legs are weak and I tremble.
This video was very informative. I was just prescribed Gabapentin 300mg. a few weeks ago for Neuropathy. I have Type2 Diabetes and was experiencing tingling and burning in my feet that was miserable. In 2 1/2 weeks, my Neuropathy in my feet is so much better. Thank you Dr. for this video.
Thank you for this comment. I'm glad to hear that you improved. Please make sure you talk to your doctor. Consider subscribing to this channel. I have many other videos that you might find useful.
And I take it with my last opioid of the night. Sleep like a baby. And it helps the first pain pill of the day. I do not take gabapentin during the day because they make you loopy.
I have been taking 1200 mg of Gabapentin daily for a long time, at first from nerve damage in my left leg from a severe leg injury from playing American Football. I have not felt much in my left leg below the knee, except for the big toe, since 1978. I also was diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy in both legs below the knee in 2010, and my doctor upped my dosage from 300 mg per evening to 1200 mg. over the course of 6 months. Taking Gabapentin at night is the only reason that I am able to sleep! Hydrocodone or OxyCodone don't really work for me...so I don't use them. If I did take 1200 mg, 3 times a day...I would sleep all the time!!!
I have Fibromyalgia, as well as nerve pain from several surgeries. Gabapentin makes it at least bearable and reduced how often I need to take Tramadol and/or Tizanidine. Plus, off label, my psychiatrist thinks it's helping as a bit of a mood stabilizer, which is what I need due to having Bipolar.
I feel you, have had crippling sciatic and back pain for over a decade, since 2019 Gabapentin had made it tolerable. I'm heading for my third surgery at the age of 30. I can lead a relatively normal life now but always have the pain at the back of my mind.
Shingles left me in debilitating pain. PHN pain took over my life in a terrible way. This has allowed me to get out of the bed. I’m still in pain, but I am getting better.
Thank you for this comment. I'm glad to hear that you improved. Please make sure you talk to your doctor. Consider subscribing to this channel. I have many other videos that you might find useful.
Thank you for this comment. I'm glad to hear that you improved. Please make sure you talk to your doctor. Consider subscribing to this channel. I have many other videos that you might find useful.
If you are suffering from back pain possibly a bone density test would tell you if you have osteoporosis which can be found in both men and woman. One test is to measure your height and if you have lost inches you need to contact your doctor for a follow up treatment.
Gabapentin was helping me , I have fibromyalgia and full body pain from a Truck accident , as I used to drive a semi truck, I'm so glad I Always used my seatbelts, but I suffered 2 fractures in my spine, anyway I became allergic to it , and I'm still suffering from the pain .
Good morning my friend Dr. Andrea thank you for this information very useful I love to listen to you explain everything to us you do it very well and your voice is very calmly thank you for this useful information again and enjoy your weekend enjoy your family and God bless🙏💕🌏
I think I just found out about my memory lapses !! Wow. I have left bags of shopping on park benches and lost expensive cameras and phones. I'm going to see my doctor who has prescribed Zomorph along side it. I hope to get my life back. My motivation and activity levels are so bad at the moment... Thankyou and thanks to the people who posted about memory loss. 😮❤
I live with severe chronic pain oh, several back surgeries didn't help actually cause more pain have sciatica and scoliosis. I was prescribed this medication and I like the fact that it took the pain away to where life was livable. It was actually odd how it worked it was like the pain was there but it was blocking my brain from letting me feel the pain it was very very odd but it worked I could deal with it but after about 3 weeks my body started having severe jerking motion, really severe jerking. I was heartbroken because you know the stigma of us that are in horrible pain needing pain relief and only opioids are our help. Then Lyrica was tried, that stuff cause me to blackout when I was Walkin talkin standing driving just all of a sudden blackout. God only knows what I'll have to be a guinea pig for next
![5 BEST Drinks for Peripheral Neuropathy & Chronic Pain [2024]](/img/n.gif)
Great information.. Thank you for sharing your experience
So nice of you. I'm glad a neurologist like you think this is great information.
Thank you, Dr. Danoun.
Yeah if you can understand her really
Tramadol is a non narcotic
@@DrAndreaFurlan I am Canadian and I have been taking Gabapentin/ Neurontin foe close to 16 years for nerve pain in my spine relating to Degenerative Disc Disease. So obviously it has been approved here for that purpose at least that length of time. In addition, I am also aware of it being used for one of my patients 20 years ago for nerve pain related to Shingles. It may also be used to treat seizure activity.
Gabapentin has been life changing for me. I had generalized anxiety and panic for over 30 years and had a mental breakdown 9 months ago. I went on gab + lamotrigine and felt better in days. I don't have anxiety now. Obviously my results are not typical but someone should do studies on gab for treating GAD since it works very well for some people. I'll add that it also stopped my nighttime itching which often kept me up for hours at night.
For what turned out to be Diabetic nephropathy, I felt like I was run over by a truck, then set on fire. I was give Oxycontin, which did nothing for me. Gabapentin allowed me to crawl off my sofa, out of my painful fetal position, into a normal life. I am forever grateful for this medication.
Dra...can i continue tsking this med .untill i fell better....as of now i'm still suffering pain bec of my diabetis.....arms and shoulder pain....
Was give X
Was given O
You need a new Doctor.
I came across this video by accident but I’m so glad I did. I was recently given a prescription for gabapentin without any further advice, after reading the side effects and listening to this video I will not be taking it.
I was on the max+ Gabapentin dose for nearly 6 years after a cervical surgery due to stenosis. I ended up having a C3 to C7 fusion. Even with this high dose it was not enough. My neuropathy had only slightly been less frequent by 20-30%. On top of that I was on a huge number of meds. For the last 3 years I’ve been off Gabapentin and all the other cocktails. To my physicians amazement cannabis became my main way of medicating. Happy to have a great quality of life!!!
Thank you!!! I love all your videos I’ve been watching because you explain very well. ⚕️👩⚕️
Hi MIke, thank you for this comment and for being a subscriber.
Mike, every time I try weed, edibles or other, I get nervous and my pain is more intense, I would love to get off the drugs I’m on, what type do you use?
Mike, every time I try weed, edibles or other, I get nervous and my pain is more intense, I would love to get off the drugs I’m on, what type do you use?
@@michelleyoung2879 Hi Michelle, my experience was the same. Would you please like to share with me if you had the weed together with your regular medication? I think perhaps that I need to taper off my medications, then start the CBD, but I'm afraid. What do you think? Have you heard anything about this? Thank you, best wishes.
Cannibis is good for nerve pain. Not so much bone and muscle pain.
Dr. Andrea, you a a gift, the gift of knowledge, "going to the point", clear, clear explaining of "the science within all of us". Thank you for sharing your tremendous gift with the rest of us. Without a doubt you are the most forthright and thorough doctor in the web.
Wow, thank you!
I have extremely terrible sciatica and also suffer from anxiety. I’m on a decent dose of gabapentin and I find it to work great for both issues. Thank you for sharing this video 🙏❤️
GOD BLESS US ALL 🇺🇸 🙏
Can I ask what dosage you are taking?
What dosage are you on?
I was cured of my Sciatica pain by Acupressure n excercise.
Great to hear. They can be a nightmare to get off though so I'd try a day or two without.
I’ve been paralyzed from the chest down for the last 19 years. Neuropathic pain is absolutely horrible and Gabapentin has been a life saver. Never had a bad reaction as long as I don’t miss a dose. Withdrawals feel like a bad flu
Hi Josh, I’m sorry to hear that. I hope your pain gets better.
@@DrAndreaFurlan thank you for your kind words gorgeous
I've missed a dose. Jittery and rough feeling. I know exactly what you're saying
I've been taking Gabapentin for 2 years now for neuropathy and I'm feeling so much better ! 😀
Thanks for sharing Luciano!
I took it for many years with neurophathy.. in both feet.. from back surgery due to sciatic nerve..problems,, it just numbed my feet...hated it. I talked to one guy, who got off Gabapentin,, he said,, I will live with the pain.. so I decided to do that as well.. and I am feeling much better. Hated the side effects, of it..I still have pain,, and I am 67 and can't sleep unless my body has no choice.. what a life..I walk a lot to keep my feet limber..
Me too, after Shingles.
What's the problem that came form surgery?@@photo7839
It also works for M.S pain...ie the restless leg syndrome... I'm so greatful for this med!
As a long-time migraineur, I have done a lot of research on this. I do understand why these neuroactive medication are given with other pain medicines. I took topiramate for years along with "real" pain medications for prophylactic migraine treatment. Fine. Now let's move on to the surgeon who replaced my hip was very stingy with adequate pain management. Instead, he wasn't too keen on good pain medicine. As my narcotic ran out & I was so much in pain, he only prescribed gabapentin. Gabapentin alone for pain was worthless.
I know how that is. I too was given inadequate pain medication. It was torture if you ask me and the doctors have no sympathy. So sorry you had to endure that.
AMEN ! I'm on 3600 mg a day of this stuff bc I refused any pain meds stronger than T3 , (which is nothing really, I know). I have TIAs, sciatica, diabetes and so on . I refused strong pain meds bc a pain clinic put me on 68 mg of dilauded a day and it stole 2 years of my life. I withdrew cold turkey....DO NOT DO THAT ! NEURONTIN is a life saver for me bc of a proper diagnosis but I don't get being addicted to it : I know that happens, sadly. This is the best medical video I have watched on this medication . All of the comments are great as well. Thank you SO much, Doctor. Be well everyone and God bless.
.
You are so correct. That is not a real pain med. I know. I took it for years also.
Surgeons need to give adequate pain meds for the beginning so you have the strength to wean yourself off later. 😁
I really feel for anyone who has to suffer without adequate pain medication. I truly believe that it's the most inhumane thing they're doing to us! I've still got another week n half before I have surgery to remove a couple discs from my spine. They won't give me anything at all. They say to keep taking the Advil & Tylenol until 5 days before my surgery. I'm suffering so bad, I really don't know how much more I can take. So much more is involved in the pain I have, other than the neck/spine pain. So cruel & they just don't care. 😭
I was taking Gabapentin for neuropathy. After a couple of years I began to develop Parkinson symptoms including tremors and seizures. After a complete neurological workup, it was determined it was the Gabapentin. Once I was weaned off of it, the Parkinson symptoms disappeared. That was about 2 years ago, and so far I those symptoms have not returned.
What did you do after that for your neuropathy
I take 1800 mg per day. 600 mg morning noon and evening. If I don’t take it or when getting close to the hour I should take it I feel pain. But you are right. It doesn’t necessarily help with sleep. And when I get proper rest, I also feel much less pain. I started taking a very low dose cannabis gummy at night (5 mg THC and hull spectrum). It helps me a lot in my overall pain management. Taking anything more (gabapentin or gummies) has a negative effect. I also avoid alcohol and caffeine. I am starting to do exercises and resting positions for spinal stenosis and they are helping tremendously. Thank you!! I still have a terrible time sitting which I think has more to do with back issues than finding the correct cushion. I have a back support which helps occasionally but not always. If you have any videos for people with unbearable pain when sitting I would appreciate hearing from you. Congratulations! You are the best most intelligent MD and PT on the internet.
Thank you for subscribing to this channel
Yes please!
Pregabelin or Lyrica can be useful in bringing the mg of gabapentin down
can I ask what specific exercises and resting positions are you doing to help with your spinal stenosis?
The video of pregabalin (Lyrica) is coming next on my channel on Nov 28 2021.
She has wonderful short presentations on variety medical topics, esp. from a medical doctor. She is always concise, on the point and direct. There are no needless narrations, and ego display, like all other presentations. Please keep on your great helpful advice, and Thank you
That is great to hear. Please share this video with your friends. I have lots of videos about chronic pain in my channel ua-cam.com/users/DrAndreaFurlan And don't forget to turn on the notifications 🔔
I tried Gabapentin for six months for sciatica, which I've had since I was twelve, and it did nothing. I know many people who swear by it. A low dose of Baclofen works for me. I'm pre-med, so I realize that the two drugs are in different classes (muscle relaxer versus anticonvulsant), but it always fascinates me how every person's body is so different. I'm studying for a pharmacology exam, so I will watch all of these. Learning about the intricacies about the human body and mind is endlessly thrilling. Thank you for these videos. I look forward to watching all of them.
Best wishes for your testing cheers from Pennsylvania 👍👍👍🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
This was interesting. I’m currently on Gabapentin For Anxiety and Alcohol cravings. I take 300 mg 3 times per day. I was tired the first few days and my body adjusted right after that.
I'm glad to hear it is helping you Sheena. Thank you for sharing with us.
Y te va bien? No ningún efecto secundario? Yo empecé y he notado una bajada del ánimo
Are u still taking it?
Same here. It was the tiredness that got me after I started Gabapentin but soon I got used to it and sometimes i just feel like I'm walking on a cloud.
1800 3600 mg a day... wow...seems like a lot. I take 150mg twice a day and was told that a decent dose. Oh well...good luck to all.
Was on very high doses of pain killers for the past 20 years (old Vietnam-era service injuries) and had a very bad back, cancer, surgery, etc. Recent advances in medicine have almost totally relieved the pain, so I self-managed medication reductions down to a minute dose; however, I couldn’t seem to get past this last little bit to get completely prescription RX free. My Dr then prescribed a low, then slightly higher dose of Gabapentin. Thank God he did! Now, my withdrawal symptoms are reduced and I’m sure I can soon wean myself completely off the meds. Only side effect is a slight drowsiness when I get up in the morning but I can easily overcome that. Just wanted to help any others on the fence about this.
I suffer from episodes of Trigeminal Neuralgia and Gabapentin is a true godsend! I don't have to take it often, but I am always extremely grateful for it when I need it...great information, thank you!
I also suffer fro.the same pain. It is in my face . The worst pain I have ever had ,that's even worse than when I had a cucerium when I had my twins and the Doctor forgot to leave an order for pain medication. It was New Years Eve and It took them 20 min. To locate him for the order . I was cut up and screaming at the top of my lungs . The nerve pain is 100 times worst and I'm not being melodramatic . I belive that why it's called the $ @#$ide nerve . Some who cant find relive end it within 2 years . I thank God for this medication. I dont have chronic pain but when I start feeling the Taser pain I'm glad I have it .
I have severe nerve damage in my hip. Between gabapentin and my pain meds I can get around quite well.
I'm in Canada, Ontario and Gabapentin is widely approved and used for nerve pain. In fact more often than for seizures. Many of us have been on it for fibromyalgia , diabetic nerve pain lupus nerve pain etc. Drs here rarely prescribe narcotic opioid pain relievers.
Have you looked at the long list of side affects.
The Dr recently took me off GAB citing studies that Opioids and GAB together can have side effects…
Unfortunately it can be just as difficult to come off as opiates, it’s actually compared with withdrawing from benzodiazepines. It’s no where near the magic bullet it’s marketed as, it’ll be the next big Pharma scandal in time
I take Gabapentin for chronic knee pain, 300 barely does the job. It was working better at 600. Hoping the doctor will increase it back to 600 next month
Hi Delores. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Having sciatica and back pain for a decade now, gabapentin has been a game changer 🙏
The pain relief I get in my legs, from it, is worth millions to me. People that havent experienced anything like this, has no clue. It changes the QOL you have forever.
can you drink alcohol with this medication...asking for a friend lol
@@RayAnn1983 No I don't think you can, I'm not anyway may increase chance of side effects
How long did it take to kick in for you, I'm still waiting , I've been on it since middle of March? I realise it takes awhile to get into your system and that everyone reacts differently to it.
@@thebeardofgaming81 it started in my lower right back could not walk without limping, then a few days later after mopping and bringing in groceries the pain started going down my right leg all the way to my toes, my leg had shooting pain that was unbearable for me went to ER gave me shot of tremadol it didn’t work then a light dose of daladid and it eased up from a pain chart 10 to an 8 prescribed 12 norco 10/500 helped for about 4 days then shooting pain again in my leg, couldn’t get comfortable moaned and growned every breath i took so painful it’s been almost 2 weeks now and i can sleep at night but still so hard to walk especially long distances i would have to get on the ground and rest it was hurting so bad still 2 weeks later and have trouble walking
I have PTSD. Was given gabapentin for back pain, but it worked wonders on the PTSD. For the first time I felt normal again. It was like having a bandage on a cut. The gnawing, painful, persistent anxiety just stopped.
Did you have withdrawals after stopping ?
I have been taking Gabapentin for 11 years with hydocodein, I manage fine. I had knee replacement with severe nerve damage. Aside from being crippled and not driving anymore I lead a fairly normal life.
ever tried lyrica? (no sickness)
Sorry to hear about your nerve damage, I had my knees replaced last year and I have shooting pains in them at night.The Gabapentin helps me sleep through the night!! 😁😁
Me too.
@@tammys2385 Hello
The video of pregabalin (Lyrica) is coming next on my channel on Nov 28 2021.
I take Gabapentin for back pain and I love it I was in it five years and my new insurance company wouldn’t pay for it so now that I have a new company I’m back on it. I’m hoping it also helps with the cording pain and tightness after my double mastectomy.
I took Gabapentin for a couple of weeks and one day while I was rowing around in my boat visiting my friends who live on boats one of them said to me are you back today again. Apparently I had done the exact same thing the day before, and had absolutely no memory of the five different boats I had visited. I had rowed 3 miles. And no memory of it. No Other Drugs involved. Oh so when I woke up at night it felt as though my head was in a cloud and I could not see the walls in the hallway. I was effectively night blind. I quit taking it nothing is worth those side effects. I like to remember and see the things I've done.
Hi Edward, thanks for sharing with us.
@@DrAndreaFurlan thanks oh, I find your other videos informative it and plan to watch more.
As for medical history, I am 69 years old I have a 22 caliber bullet stuck between my heart and my lung and it constantly moving I got that in 1982 but it's hardly noticeable, splenectomy 1978 compression fracture T4 1988 severe next sprain 1993 fractured hip 2002 broken jaw both sides with metal plates 2010 and got plain worn out by 2015 took the Social Security way out in 2018. I think I'm done working. I am trying to find a way to deal with pain oh, now attempting mindfulness oh, a baby aspirin at night, and about 2 oxycodone 10 mg perge. The pain persist in my lower back and neck and I get cramps at night from the toes up to the calf and very rarely above that. Even thinking about it is depressing take care good luck and God bless. So if you've only got one of these things I envy you.
@@edwardroche2480 Do you have Restless Leg Syndrome?
@@edwardroche2480 YOU NEED TO LIVE IN MEXICO THEY HAVE GREAT!!! PAIN KILLERS EASY TO GET FROM PHARMACY 💪🏻
AND BLUE PILLS 👫
Absolutely outstanding informative videos. You have definitely created a high level of trust and respect from your viewers.
Thank you for your kind words, Robert.
@@DrAndreaFurlan so are you getting FREE study information!! Without no compensation for us commentors!!Just keeping it real honest
@@box.24356
Not sure why anyone would say this or what you know about studies or where you live but you need participants signed legal consent for a study. Here in Toronto Canada where she practices MDs and researchers are held to very strict protocols. Perfect? No, but better then many countries incl the US. At the very least no way to confirm or clarify generalized info in comments incl source or accuracy. Just being real. Do some research.
Mam, what a clear narration about seizers of trigeminal neuralgia, diabetic nephropathy and others with a point to point, i love always to see your videos those are useful to do yoga as well as to use medicines dosage as how doctor explaines, because u r professional, really thanks, keep it up, namaste
Thank you, Dr Andrea! I love the way you present the info, very precise, systematic and easy to understand.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for writing what I actually wanted to write. I kinda wished I’d written them words 1st myself. Thank you!!!
Pssst I commented some nice words just b4 reading yours. 😃👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I love your voice. I watched it because your voice is so calming. The video is very informative as well.
Thank you so much 🙂
Been taking it for 8 years, my pain doctor left and it was up to my primary care doctor to fill the prescriptions, he will only give 1 month at a time, I do not think it has been helping for my chronic pain so I stopped taking it 2 weeks ago, I now think clearer.
So happy to have discovered your channel 💕. Thank you Dr. Furlan.
So glad too!
Gabapentin has been helpful for me with sciatic nerve issues and hip pain.
I hope it helps me in the same way!
This video came up… I did not look for this info…however, I sat and watched and have to say how INFORMATIVE. Thank you. I am so much wiser for watching. I have heard of this medication but now have knowledge about it.
You are so welcome!
Thank you Dr. Furlan, very interesting! I was on Gabapentin, but it made me very tired. I now take 600mg of Pregabalin for diabetic neuropathy.
The video of pregabalin is coming next on my channel on Nov 28 2021.
I have been on gabapentin to treat Trigeminal neuralgia that triggers intense pain in my lower right jaw. We reached a dosage of 700 mg
a day…200 a.m., 200 mg afternoon, 300 mg bedtime. Never have had any issues with it and am great full for it..
After having a total of 12 surgeries on my left which was a series of debridments; my leg was all jacked up and I had the kind of nerve pain that was just plain weird and annoyingly painful. Gabapentin has been a life saver for me. Its a powerful drug that needs to be respected and not taken lightly.
Thank you for this comment. I'm glad to hear that you improved. Please make sure you talk to your doctor. Consider subscribing to this channel. I have many other videos that you might find useful.
@@DrAndreaFurlan will do :)
After a Crippling Spine Surgery I sustained Permanent Nerve Damage. I’ve been on Gabapentin for 16 year’s. I only use it when I’ve over done chores and have significant Damage (or Compression Fractures) Pain. I also have a Pain Pump, so Thankful for that ! A friend of mine had Shingles, incredible Pain. His doc prescribed Gabapentin, 100MG, not nearly enough, I take 1200MG 2 times a day if pain is at a 8-10 on a scale of 1-10 ! Pain Management Doc’s know how to prescribe, they treat MANY Pain condition’s.
I personally appreciate all your video's and content! helped me a lot to understand about my condition.
I learned sooo much from this video. It does leave me with several questions, but those are best discussed with my physician. But at least I know what to ask! thank you very much Dr Furlan
Glad it was helpful! Please consider subscribing to this channel.
This fantastic information. I have surgery Friday for my whole pelvic floor and I was prescribed this the day before and the morning of. I am so nervous to take anything and was wondering why I was prescribed it. You really put my mind at ease.
I'm glad to hear that. I'll do a LIVE UA-cam session to make an announcement this Saturday. March 4th at 11 am ET. I hope to see you there.
I am prescribed this medication for seizures/epilepsy and all she has said here is true . I actually went a few days without it not long ago and suffered from high anxiety and depression. I realized my mistake and all is well . Thank you for this time Dr.
Did your seizures/epilepsy stop after few years ? Where you able to withdraw at all ?
I was on gabapentin for neuropathy from type 2 diabetes. Worked good except I started noticing bruising when I was barely touched. Now take pregablin, Lyrica, and it's fine no more bruising.
This medication helps with my neuropathy due to chemo treatment. I take the 100 mg every evening and I don’t have the toe cramps any longer. I tried taking B12 supplements but it only took the edge off.
We
Thank you for Sharing this Video I got prescribed gabopentin while admitted to hospital as I couldn't feel my top of my legs & the Drs done examinations was in hospital for 11days & found that I have sciatica & Rhumatoid Arthritis in my back which was extremely painful & now the Drs & specialists prescribed gabopentin to the highest dose that I can take Thank you for Sharing this Video 🙏👍
Dr. Andrea, Thank you. As you know, in the USA, September 2021, Gabapentin became a controlled substance. For refills, it must be at least 28 days. It is now treated like any other benzo. Strangely for me, it DOES WORK on my anxiety and insomnia! The thing is, nothing else helped me! I thought/think my doctor is a genius. I have been on 900mg. a day now for almost a year. Doctor, thank you !
DIANE DOWD please correct your info. On a Federal level gabapentin has NOT been classified as a controlled substance. However 5 states Kentucky, Virginia,West Virginia, Michigan, Tennessee have reclassified it.
They still mail mine to me. I started out with 100 mg 3 times a day for a pulmonary problem about a year ago. I have been taking 300 mg 3 times a day for about 2 months for an added neurology problem in my feet. I think I had all the side effects that have been mentioned and told my doctor that I couldn't take that much. I felt really out of it. My mother died during this time and it didn't even seem to phase me one bit. The Dr lowered my dose to 200 mg 3 times a day today and I hope that will be OK but they want me to see me most in 10 days to see if I can go back up to the 300 mg 3 times a day. Even if they say I can I'm not going to take that much again.
Yeah I began my journey with it in May 2021, but I also take it with 4mg of Tizanidine when my pain gets really bad. It really works how ever I'm developing more inflammation in my joints. It's so bad I has to be prescribed MethyIPREDNISolone for five days. I feel the difference already and I am only on day 2. I have Disk Degenerative disease in both my lower right and left side of my back and Sciatica. Was in an accident while on Active duty in the Army.
It has helped me I have had 7 surgeries and I nerves were always firing. It felt like 4th of July. So it has helped so much. Plus helps my cluster headackes.
Thank you for sharing Mary.
My husband has been prescribed Gabapentin twice after two surgeries… It turned him into an emotional, blubbering, mess. It was truly heartbreaking to see. Just wanted to mention a possible side effect to watch out for.
Ayurveda can effectively help in it Mam. Best wishes for ur husband 🙏🏻
@@coolfiredragon3253 Thank you…. He only took it for a couple days for surgery pain, he felt the emotional state it put him in wasn’t worth it. As soon as he stopped the last does, he was emotionally back to normal within 24 hours. 🥰🥰
The dosage was too high, I'm on it and when they increased it I couldn't function
These drugs can be depressive. I was prescribed carbamazepine and it gave me mouthsores so bad I cannot swallow anything. I suffered from terminal neuralgia, i tried acpuncture and Chinese meds. But I had to stop using all hospital prescribed meds.
I was turned into an emotional mess to..I lost my new boyfriend, he thought I was too emotional for him..and the nightmare scared the hell out of me. After all that I never had neuropathy and took that train wreck of a medication for nothing..😡
My Doctor had me taking tramadol with gabapentin, still no relief of pain. Great video!
I take gabapentin for trigeminal neuralgia. I used to take it daily but I was always soooo tired ( I also take oxcarbazapine). Now I only take it when I start having severe pain. Thank you for the great info.
Thanks for sharing!!
Prescribed for cervical stenosis. No effect on pain from it, but gave me nightmares and headaches.
Same here good luck.
Me too.
I always wondered if my severe cervical stenosis actually caused my bad dreams I thought maybe I’m not getting proper blood flow to my brain especially at night sleeping when I’m not moving ?
Yes me too, I was hearing voices and it scared me
2 years ago I decided to stop messing around with all of these oral medications and had a Medtronic pain pump installed. It was truly life changing. Yes, I'm using an opiate pain medication, but I only need 1/10th of the amount I was taking prior to the pump. I don't have the need for constantly increasing doses. I am getting almost complete pain relief. I only need to go get my pump filled every 3 months. The medication goes directly into the spine and blocks the pain impulses from getting to the brain by way of spinal fluid I highly recommend doing a trial of this device to see if it fits your needs.
Not everyone can afford an opioid pump.
I got the pump too thank good for the angels who invented the intrathecal pump!
The meds are actually put into our cerebral fluid thru the catheter running up the spine. Because it’s delivered there we have no side effects and no reactions to the medicine so we can live our best life!
@@DrAndreaFurlan the pump is not only used for opioids I have several non class 2 meds in my pump please don’t make this miracle cure into a drug thing because it is NOT!
@@DrAndreaFurlan and not everyone can use it, ex. a totally fused spine t-3 to sacrum.
I found the Dulera inhaler for asthma caused Cushing syndrome which does not allow my body to absorb calcium. I have two fractures in my spine. I have since discontinued Dulera and just rely on Singular for my asthma relief medicine. Side effects can do more harm than good in some instance, but I have found gabapentin for nerve pain to be a life saver.
Thank you for sharing your experience, Gloria.
@@DrAndreaFurlan .....I found researching is the key, and I have been spot on when diagnosing an ailment then I mention it to my doctor and we concur.
Thank you for taking the time to educate us about Gabapentin 👏🏼👏🏼
Thank you for watching the video and writing this comment. Please share this video with your friends. I have lots of videos about chronic pain on my channel ua-cam.com/users/DrAndreaFurlan And don't forget to turn on the notifications 🔔
I use it for diabetic neuropathy and thank God for it gabapentin and tramadol gives me about 13 hrs of pain relief from the neuropathy, and I hurt my back a number of months ago and I am thankful for it
Nope, nope, nope! I had restless arm syndrome, this med stopped my flopping around and my wife flopping legs. It ensures we have a decent nights sleep.
Thank you for sharing that
I had restless leg syndrome. 2 yrs. taking Gabapentin. And my scalp would get strange it helps.
@@Linda-in9ns --- when you say it helps, how much does it help? Thanks.
I had the same results. Broken arm got CRPS after. Terrible restlessness, terrible insomnia. This definitely helped
I use the Gabapentin for my fibromyalsia. I can't believe how well it works. I don't know what I would without it.
Hi Lori, Thank you for sharing that.
What dosage please? I’m nervous of gabapentin and only taking 100mg right now and also 10mg x 3 diazepam for muscle spasms. I’m in terrible pain in back, legs and hands etc. I’ve heard so many negative things about gabapentin so would welcome your experience thanks.
We need information… I loved your informative video on tramadol… great info! This one on gabapentin is really good also. Cannot thank you enough!♥️🌸
So nice of you Sue! Please share this video with your friends. I have lots of videos about chronic pain on my channel ua-cam.com/users/DrAndreaFurlan
Which is better for sore painful muscles, pain medication, or muscle relaxers?
My neuropathic pain started after I had a stroke. Gabapentin has worked really well since then to blunt to tingling and give me better movement in my left side.
All it did for me was cause weight gain
Ive taken 1 pill at night for18 yrs. Got me through night sweats, numb arms and helps me sleep deeply with no hangover. Made me sleepy during day so just one before bed.
How much, wich dose?
Our old dog is on this for arthritic pain. She was previously on Previcox NSAID but it seemed to have stopped having any effect at all. She also had night time anxiety called "Sundowner's" and would frantically pace all night then sleep all day. Now, just 11 days in gabapentin has calmed her, had our first full night's sleep I months last night! And she stops panting just 20 minutes after taking the medication. I take that to say her pain subsides. I can only hope because she obviously can't talk.
Our vet is on gabapentin as well as her dogs and says it's a very safe medication. I have to believe she knows best. So far it has been really good
My dog also on it for arthritis it’s really helped her and seems to ease her pain and anxiety
my doctor has put me on this drug and I'm sure hope it helps.Iv heard good and bad things about it.Im taking 100mg.at night.It don't help me sleep.Thank you for the video.I understand this medicine better.
As the studies have found, it works well for some people and not at all for others. I am on 900mg daily - 3 x 300 and it has been a life saver. It does not stop all of my sciatic pain but it has really reduced the sporadic nerve impulses (electric shock like twinges) that would keep me up all night.
Where do the electric shock like feelings happen, body area
It's junk
@@raytreat6599 started with tingling between my shoulder blades from my spine to right scapula and would then give me a little shock right down my right arm. It's now more persistent in my lower spine from lumbar down, giving the same tingling sensations across my buttocks and hips, causing my legs to twitch. Only happens when sitting or lying down.
That’s the same problem I have with it.I have an appointment with the neurologist to see what’s going on.
I get electric shock sensation but it's from withdrawal from SNRI(effexor)
Funny, I need to be put on this- I use to have seizures, I have severe anxiety pain in my back legs and I have hot flashes like HORRIBLY! I’ll be bringing this up to my dr!!!!
Thank you for watching the video and writing this comment. Please share this video with your friends. I have lots of videos about chronic pain on my channel ua-cam.com/users/DrAndreaFurlan And don't forget to turn on the notifications 🔔
Took Gabapentin when I was first diagnosed with the late effects of polio. When later my job was less physically demanding, my doctor took me off of them because of side effects.
I will go back for a retry.. seizures, chronic pain, diabetic neuropathy, small cell, large cell neuropathy... muscle pain??do you suggest I try this again??
Thank you for the chart suggesting how to start dosing w/gabapentin. I was prescribed 300mg 3 times/day, started at night because got it from pharmacy late in day. TOO much for me. Asked doctor for change to 100mg. He agreed. Will send him your charts. It’s for chronic pain, lumbar spine. Not much help yet- 6 days only. I don’t tolerate meds very well, but will give it continued try.
Thanks for sharing
I've been taking gabapentin for 3 yrs. My Osteoporosis Dr prescribed for my Osteoarthritis pain. It really helps me. I only take 2 100 mg a day.
This medicine has cured my back and nerve pain, panic attacks and my insomnia and I no longer black out IT'S AWESOME
Hi Kevin, thank you for sharing with us.
Can't over estimate the change, 3 months to the day of taking it, I moved in to my first home and I am songwriting and recording new music
@@kevinwaynant1126 спасибо вам,что поделились
@@kevinwaynant1126 Hey can we hear an update please?
@@DrAndreaFurlan hi, does it take time to work or does it work soon after taking it?, I've been prescribed this for sciatica by my Dr..haven't started it yet though.
Excellent. I'm on this medication now for post operative recovery. I like it.
Yesterday my ortho sugeon prescribed me dubinar gel with gabapentin.... Im on that for shoulder pain.... And this video gave me an insight into the way the gel worked... Thnx doctor
Please follow what your doctor told you.
I listened to a lecture by a Stanford University Doctor who said overdosing on Gabapentin is almost impossible. But you said differently.
Your channel is one the best available. Keep up the great work. With appreciation.. .
Thank you so much 😀
Everyone is different and reacts to Gabapentin differently as well. I took it initially for trigeminal neuralgia. Unfortunately, as in many cases it stopped working. I ended up having to tak carbamizepine which is hellishly potent, but it works. I was able to put the TN in remission by taking Metnx twice a day/every day (highly recommended). No longer have to use the carbamizepine. However, I use just 100mg gabapentin for diabetic neuralgia in my feet just before bed time. Dr. Furlan, you gave the best explanation for uses I've heard about gabapentin. Thank you so very much. You are truly outstanding! Namaste!
As I've seen,heard and experienced not all people react the same to all pain meds🤔 sounds strange but I've also heard from friends with red heads in there family that pain pills don't work as well
I got burned on my foot and had to have a skin graft. Gabapentin was a godsend! Couldn't walk without it. You need to titrate up to overcome the drowsiness side effect.
I was prescribed it for neuropathic pain, but I had to stop taking it continually because it made me so drowsy and unable to work the next day and it didn't seem to improve with time. On the flip side, if you WANT to sleep, its the best sleep inducer I've ever taken. I still take it as it does the job for the pain, but only when I don't need to do much the following morning. During the working week I take something else.
What works for me is 300mg when getting up and 600mg at bedtime. It helps considerably for diabetic pain, sleeplessness, social anxiety disorder, and especially intermittent explosive disorder. Of all my medications this one has the most noticeable beneficial effect. If I miss two or more doses, I can tell. One interesting side effect is that I dream more vividly, sometimes even lucidly.
Wow...thank u for expressing that u dream more etc...I was wondering why my dreams r every night and very vivid and realistic!!!
I love vivid dreams colorful and so realistic and you can control everything like a director of a movie 🍿
Sometimes when I close my eyes after about half an hour of taking a dose i can see people walking around sitting and talking I can’t hear them and it’s all very much in color
How much weight have you put on?. Not worth it!
@@bonnierobinson8684 could this be my reason for increased appetite🤔??
Gabapentin has been a life saver for me. I had an industrial accident that crushed and degloved my right foot. The main nerve had the sheath destroyed with the rods attaching to the scar tissue which causes my pain. With the use of this drug, I am able to function. My daily dosage is 3200 mg/day taken 4 times daily.
I take it for Fibromyalgia and it works great at a dose I can function on
Sorry to hear about your accident, but happy to hear it is, helping you! Congratulations! I'm reading these comments and some (to me) sound ridiculous! I'm on 600mg/day. (Should be increased, but, Dr's leary, because on Oxycodone) Been on Oxycodone for 15 yrs, never had a "problem." So sick of people saying how dangerous it is! Yes, if you don't take it "CORRECTLY!" I'm 65yrs old, fractured my back last year, but have had Chronic Migraines & fibromyalgia for 3 decades. So, I have been on Oxycodone for that long. I'm still here! I drive & do normal things. I was put on the Gabapentin for my back & fibromyalgia. Also, *forgot to mention* fell on (L) shoulder & damaged nerves & fluid buildup. Went through Occupational Therapy for "2" months, improved my mobility, but, pain still there. Anyway, tired of people telling me, it's so bad to take Oxycodone and now on Gabapentin! Put bluntly "Mind your own business!" I take as my Dr prescribed and doing just great! Had to tell "My Story." Tired of the "Oxycodone" nay sayers! If you take your meds correctly and your pain is being eliviviated, good for you!
@@sharonsocoloski5485 Exactly! Same here!
@@VGrandy may I asked your dosage
I had terrible back pain, the type that sharp shooting pain would make me stop in my tracks. I was taking Norco, and that is 10mg of Hydrocodone with 350mg of Tylenol. They are pretty strong but it didn't work. I was set up for back surgery on bulging discs. I went for a second opinion at the Spaulding Rehabilitation and was told my MRI of my discs were very average for my age. The doctor suggested I try gabapentin and to my amazement it killed the pain much better. Eventually the sharp shooting pains went away. But it is very effective for nerve pain.
Thank you for taking the time to write this comment. I don't have the ability to give medical advice here because I am not able to get all the details that I need and most importantly, to examine you. Please talk to your doctor. Consider subscribing to this channel.
I have chronic pain. I take Gapapentin for nerve pain. It doesn't help my back pain at all.
Well l am glad u found something
And I as well have nerve pain called CRPS but to my front and hands and feet and does nothing for my pain. Doctors seem to be prescribing it more to limit the amount of narcotics a patient is on.
I took 300 MG and all it did was make me sleep.
Is it good for facial never pain??
It depends on the casue of the pain
@@DrAndreaFurlan trigeminal neuralgia
I have another video for trigeminal neuralgia: ua-cam.com/video/bbuaqoJIduU/v-deo.html
Being on neurotin several times at all doses i can say that it can help anxiety !! Usually at a moderate to moderatly high dose, same with nerve pain !! But like she said take it easy on the doses !! And to me its about as well for pain and sleeplessness as whiskey, and about as good for anxiety as a low dose of valium !! Ah yea my issues is that i was diagnosed with g.a.d., b.p.s., moderatly severe diabetic neuropathy, and sciatica, and two bulging discs in my neck !!
When I were in my
Thirties My Dr, put me on gabapentin.
For RLS in 2016
I fall and broke my arm. They gave me ibuprofen and a long with taking gabapentin my intestines busted.
That led up too fore
Surgeries one after another. After my last sugary they told me they were sorry but they had did all they could do
So they told me they could only give me pain medication and do everything they could to make me comfortable too die. 'I didn't feel like God was ready for me get. So I fought hard too live and here I'am 'I know I'm a miracle!
So she's right. When taking gabapentin please make sure you let your Dr. Know you're on gabapentin.
Thank you this were so helpful!
Welcome
I've been on Gabapentin 800 mg. since 2002. I started to have seizures after being on Amitriptyline 150mg. I'm still on it and it does help a lot of different pain. My husband finally went on because of his knees and back. He feels it taking the pain away. She knows what she's talking about.
Hi Jocelyne, Thank you for subscribing. Don't forget to turn on the notificaitons to be alerted when I post new videos here. Stay safe.
I am the same!! The Amitriptyline almost killed me I was misjudging and would walk into walls and I fell through a glass coffee table and had seizures as well!! That's a VERY dangerous drug!! Nuerontin has been my choice over pain meds and Xanax any day!!
She is a quack well trained by big pharmaceuticals
Help! Gabapentin gave my friend vitiligo. How can they get back their melanin? I'm open to suggestions that work.
Gabapentin was horrible for me. After starting it, I was driving to my optician’s office and couldn’t find the parking lot, even though I’d been there dozens of times. I was driving 30 mph and felt like I was going 60. On the way home, I couldn’t remember if I could turn right on a red light until people behind me started honking. We left for vacation the next day and stopped to use the restroom. I was so dizzy in the stall that I fell back on the toilet seat. I was so dizzy walking through the store back to our car that I couldn’t do it. My husband came looking for me and had to help me back to the car because I was too dizzy to walk. I stopped taking it right then and within 2 days I was completely back to normal. Evil stuff! Never again.
Me too I was horrible I took because my doctor told me that all the can give me for my herniated disc and my neck and fibromyalgia . I've been suicidal all they want to do is give u medication to quiet ur complains
I took it one night. Next day I was a zombie no feelings. I felt like I was somewhere else. Not here
I have 100mg capsules and only take it at bedtime in order to sleep without lower back pain. If I take it 3 days in a row, my legs are weak and I tremble.
Hello! It helps big time with anxiety.
Thank you so much for this wonderful explanation of Gabapentin.
Glad it was helpful!
I been taking Gabapentin since 2002 It has worked for me and I am quite happy with it
This video was very informative. I was just prescribed Gabapentin 300mg. a few weeks ago for Neuropathy. I have Type2 Diabetes and was experiencing tingling and burning in my feet that was miserable. In 2 1/2 weeks, my Neuropathy in my feet is so much better. Thank you Dr. for this video.
Thank you for this comment. I'm glad to hear that you improved. Please make sure you talk to your doctor. Consider subscribing to this channel. I have many other videos that you might find useful.
@@DrAndreaFurlan I subscribed right after I watched this video. ❤
Thank you Penny!
It helps me with sciatica, neuropathy (diabetes), arthritic and fibromyalgia pain, and anxiety and sleeplessness.
I just take 600 mg at night.
And I take it with my last opioid of the night. Sleep like a baby. And it helps the first pain pill of the day. I do not take gabapentin during the day because they make you loopy.
Hi Grabnrun. Thank you for sharing with us.
I have been taking 1200 mg of Gabapentin daily for a long time, at first from nerve damage in my left leg from a severe leg injury from playing American Football. I have not felt much in my left leg below the knee, except for the big toe, since 1978. I also was diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy in both legs below the knee in 2010, and my doctor upped my dosage from 300 mg per evening to 1200 mg. over the course of 6 months. Taking Gabapentin at night is the only reason that I am able to sleep! Hydrocodone or OxyCodone don't really work for me...so I don't use them. If I did take 1200 mg, 3 times a day...I would sleep all the time!!!
Thanks for sharing, Larry.
Thanks.. some honest answers. better than i get from any MEDICAID DOCTOR
I'm glad you like it.
I have Fibromyalgia, as well as nerve pain from several surgeries. Gabapentin makes it at least bearable and reduced how often I need to take Tramadol and/or Tizanidine. Plus, off label, my psychiatrist thinks it's helping as a bit of a mood stabilizer, which is what I need due to having Bipolar.
Feeel ya
ISAIAH 35:5,6
No more pain
I feel you, have had crippling sciatic and back pain for over a decade, since 2019 Gabapentin had made it tolerable. I'm heading for my third surgery at the age of 30. I can lead a relatively normal life now but always have the pain at the back of my mind.
You might need something else. Look into how badly gabapentin depletes you of nutrients. It's horrifying.
@@johnwarden3880 And how hard it is to get off of when you've been on it awhile.
@@johnwarden3880 really? I wasn’t aware of that. Take a low dose at night.
Shingles left me in debilitating pain. PHN pain took over my life in a terrible way. This has allowed me to get out of the bed. I’m still in pain, but I am getting better.
Thank you for this comment. I'm glad to hear that you improved. Please make sure you talk to your doctor. Consider subscribing to this channel. I have many other videos that you might find useful.
I watch you all the time you help me with my back pain exercises I have been taking Gabapentin for months it don’t help my back pain kmt
Thank you for this comment. I'm glad to hear that you improved. Please make sure you talk to your doctor. Consider subscribing to this channel. I have many other videos that you might find useful.
If you are suffering from back pain possibly a bone density test would tell you if you have osteoporosis which can be found in both men and woman. One test is to measure your height and if you have lost inches you need to contact your doctor for a follow up treatment.
Gabapentin was helping me , I have fibromyalgia and full body pain from a Truck accident , as I used to drive a semi truck, I'm so glad I Always used my seatbelts, but I suffered 2 fractures in my spine, anyway I became allergic to it , and I'm still suffering from the pain .
Good morning my friend Dr. Andrea thank you for this information very useful I love to listen to you explain everything to us you do it very well and your voice is very calmly thank you for this useful information again and enjoy your weekend enjoy your family and God bless🙏💕🌏
You are so welcome, Maria!
I think I just found out about my memory lapses !!
Wow.
I have left bags of shopping on park benches and lost expensive cameras and phones.
I'm going to see my doctor who has prescribed Zomorph along side it.
I hope to get my life back.
My motivation and activity levels are so bad at the moment...
Thankyou and thanks to the people who posted about memory loss.
😮❤
I live with severe chronic pain oh, several back surgeries didn't help actually cause more pain have sciatica and scoliosis. I was prescribed this medication and I like the fact that it took the pain away to where life was livable. It was actually odd how it worked it was like the pain was there but it was blocking my brain from letting me feel the pain it was very very odd but it worked I could deal with it but after about 3 weeks my body started having severe jerking motion, really severe jerking. I was heartbroken because you know the stigma of us that are in horrible pain needing pain relief and only opioids are our help. Then Lyrica was tried, that stuff cause me to blackout when I was Walkin talkin standing driving just all of a sudden blackout. God only knows what I'll have to be a guinea pig for next
The video of pregabalin is coming next on my channel on Nov 28 2021.