Will Gabapentin Produce The Same Side Effects As Lyrica?

I was put on Lyrica for diabetic nerve pain, but after taking it for 2 weeks, my blood sugar dropped drastically, and I had to be hospitalized. It was determined that Lyrica was responsible, since that was the only thing that had changed. I was taken off the Lyrica immediately. However, I have suffered with constant leg pain for years, and asked my doctor if there was something different I could take. He prescibed Gabapentin for a trial month to see how I do with it. When I got home, I searched the Internet for more information and see that it was primarily prescribed for seizures. My question is: Will I experience the same side effects as I did with Lyrica, and will I become dependent on the medication if it does help. I don't like the possible side effects of mood swings, depression, etc.

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I have chronic nerve pain in both of my legs I have tried Lyrica also but the side effect wasn't worth the little relief I got from taking it. I have been on Gabapenin 800 mg 3 x day since 2004 it help a lot but I went without them for 2 weeks a few years ago and the withdrawal was worse then anything I ever went through. So stopping them without tapering off them is worse then coming off narcotic pain medicine. That is the only bad about them. Good luck I been there too.

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@Strawberry (original post),

Because Lyrica and Gabapentin contain different active ingredients, there's really no way to know for sure how you will react/respond without taking it first. I'd like to think otherwise since both meds 'seem' interchangeable, but after reading several reviews from those with personal experience, I think the truth is everyone responds differently.

Even your Dr. couldn't know how well you'll end up doing on the Gabapentin ahead of time. Some people don't have any side effects while taking it, but others may experience a number of serious symptoms. That's just one of the risks you take with pretty much any prescription medication; whereas you have to weigh out the risks vs benefits and see for yourself if it's really right for you after giving it a trial run.

Have you already started taking it yet?

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David, thank you for your response. Yes, I have started taking the Gabapentin, and so far, it seems to be helping the pain in my feet and legs. I have not noticed any side effects yet, only that I get very sleepy. However, I know that this is one of the side effects of a lot of prescription pain medication. Hopefully, I will finally get some relief, so that I can begin walking more, and regain some strength in my legs.

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Gab didn't give me any side effects at all.

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