Constipation may not be a common side effect of gabapentin use, but it is possible. Altering your diet or using laxatives may help alleviate this condition.
If you are experiencing constipation while taking gabapentin, prevention is key: drink lots of water and consume a diet high in fiber-rich foods as well as taking an effective laxative every day.
Gabapentin and Constipation: What’s the connection?
Doctors frequently prescribe Gabapentin to treat various conditions. People using it to treat restless legs syndrome may experience constipation as a side effect of taking Gabapentin; additionally, this drug may make people feel full and bloated. These side effects usually subside on their own; if they persist beyond this point, talk with their physician.
Elderly adults may be more prone to the constipation side effect of gabapentin due to natural aging or an underlying digestive disorder, so those experiencing unusually frequent or painful bowel movements should contact their physician immediately.
When taking gabapentin, it is vitally important that all prescribed doses are taken on schedule. Any changes to brand, type or strength must be done gradually; any potential side effects should also be discussed with their pharmacist prior to changing forms or types.
In addition, individuals should strictly abide by all instructions on their prescription label, such as not breaking or chewing extended-release tablets such as Neurontin or Horizant without first consulting their physician first.
Does Gabapentin Cause Constipation?
Gabapentin, a remedy for nerve pain and seizures, may lead to constipation, although rarely. In trials, a mere 4% of adults encountered constipation while using gabapentin for nerve pain. Comparatively, a placebo yielded a constipation report of 2%. Hence, the actual constipation incidence with gabapentin is likely below 4%.
Although diarrhea claims the title of more common side effect for gabapentin, some users have voiced constipation as a consequence. One must recognize that gabapentin can interact with other medications, specifically opioids, heightening the likelihood of constipation. Should constipation arise during gabapentin use, one may attempt home remedies or consult a physician for guidance.
In summation, constipation as a result of gabapentin use is infrequent. If constipation does occur, exploring at-home solutions or seeking medical counsel is advised.
What Are the Other Common Side Effects of Gabapentin
Gabapentin, a medication commonly prescribed for nerve pain and seizures, can potentially lead to side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone may experience these side effects.
The most frequently reported ones include:
- Feeling sleepy, tired, or dizzy
- Feeling sick (nausea)
- Being sick (vomiting)
- Diarrhea
- Mood changes
- Swollen arms and legs
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
These are some common side effects of gabapentin that may occur in more than 1 in 100 people. Usually, they are mild and resolve without any intervention. However, if these side effects bother you or persist, it is advisable to consult your doctor for further guidance.
Other side effects of gabapentin may include:
- Abnormal eye movements
- Constipation
- Difficulty speaking
- Drowsiness or tiredness
- Trembling or shaking
- Unexplained weight loss
- Voice changes
- Tingling in the hands and feet
- Trouble sleeping
- Trouble swallowing
- Trouble thinking
- Twitching
- Irritability
- Xerostomia (dry mouth)
Less common, yet still possible are these side effects. Should you encounter any of these symptoms, it is advisable to reach out to your doctor for guidance.
How Long Does It Take for Constipation Caused by Gabapentin to Resolve
The duration of constipation caused by gabapentin varies for each individual, as it depends on how their body reacts to the medication. There is no specific timeframe for this condition. If you happen to experience constipation while taking gabapentin, you have a couple of options.
Firstly, you can try using at-home remedies; however, it is also advisable to seek advice from your doctor. They can provide guidance and suggest appropriate measures to alleviate constipation. Remember that everyone’s body responds
– Drinking plenty of water
– Eating high-fiber foods
– Exercising regularly
– Taking over-the-counter laxatives or stool softeners
If constipation persists or becomes severe, individuals should consult their doctor. The healthcare provider may suggest alternative medications or prescribe a laxative to alleviate symptoms.
Does Gabapentin Cause Diarrhea?
Many medications can cause mild digestive side effects, including constipation and diarrhea. These adverse reactions typically subside once the body adjusts to taking the medicine.
Diarrhea can be caused by certain foods and drinks, including high-fat foods, spicy dishes, dairy products (if lactose intolerant), alcohol, caffeine or any combination thereof. You can minimize its severity by following a low-fat diet and drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day.
If you experience severe side effects like sudden changes to your bowel movements, consult with your physician immediately. They may suggest diet modifications or reducing dosage. They’ll want to understand more about any previous kidney issues or renal failure cases as gabapentin may pass through breast milk into breastfed babies’ systems.
Also notify them if breastfeeding or planing on becoming pregnant since gabapentin passes into breastmilk; additionally inform them if gabapentin passes into their bodies through breastmilk; in cases of suspected overdosage immediately call 911/your local emergency number/text “TALK to 741741”, to reach a crisis counselor immediately; otherwise text “TALK to 741741” to connect directly to a crisis counselor
Does Gabapentin Cause Nausea?
Gabapentin may cause mild nausea that will subside as soon as your body adjusts to it. For optimal results, take this medication exactly as prescribed; taking too much too quickly could increase side effects and increase side effects further. Speak to your physician if any severe symptoms develop – either adjust your dosage or stop altogether if the situation warrants.
Antacids should not be taken with gabapentin as this can affect how your body absorbs it, and alcohol should also be avoided during treatment. Gabapentin can cause drowsiness; until you know how it affects you, it is wise to avoid driving or operating machinery until knowing its effects on you.
This medication may cause a potentially severe skin reaction called multiorgan hypersensitivity syndrome (DRESS). If you develop symptoms like rash, fever or swollen lymph nodes immediately contact your physician; otherwise do not take this medication again after experiencing an adverse event from it in the past.
