Gabapentin is a prescription drug sold under the brand names Neurontin or Gralise to treat nerve pain and seizures.
Gabapentin may have some side effects.
In addition to other gabapentin side effects, weight gain may affect some users, but its not common.
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Is Weight Gain Common With Gabapentin?
Weight gainis not considered a common side effect of gabapentin.
If you do experience weight gain while taking gabapentin, do not stop taking it.
Why Does It Happen?
Weight gain due to gabapentin is different and depends on the dose and duration of its use.
Tell your healthcare provider if any of these symptoms persist.
Closely monitor any sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings.
Do not stop taking gabapentin suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider.
Sudden stopping of gabapentin may causestatus epilepticus(seizures that will not stop) in people with epilepsy.
Your healthcare provider can help gradually taper the dose before stopping it completely.
Other Medications That Cause Weight Gain
Some drugs may cause weight gain more commonly than others.
Talk to your healthcare provider if the risk of weight gain is a concern for you.
However, you’re able to try controlling weight by adopting a few lifestyle changes.
you’re able to ask your healthcare provider aboutweight loss medications.
However, these should be used only as prescribed.
Summary
Gabapentin can cause a few side effects, including weight gain.
If youre taking gabapentin and you think you may have been gaining weight, talk to your healthcare provider.
Lifestyle changes and medications may help with weight management.
However, it’s important to never stop taking gabapentin on your own due to additional weight gain.
Doing so can cause severe adverse effects.
DailyMed.Label: Neurontin- gabapentin.
US Food and Drug Administration.Neurontin (gabapentin) Highlights of prescribing information.