Medication Guides

What Happens If You Stop Taking Gabapentin Suddenly?

Linda Girgis | MD

Medically reviewed by Linda Girgis | MD, Girgis Family Medicine on August 20th, 2026.

Stopping gabapentin suddenly can cause serious withdrawal symptoms including seizures, anxiety, and pain flare-ups. Withdrawal typically begins 12-48 hours after your last dose and can include tremors, sweating, nausea, insomnia, and increased heart rate. Studies show that 40-60% of people experience withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing gabapentin abruptly. The severity depends on your dose, duration of use, and individual factors. Most doctors recommend reducing your dose by 25-50% weekly over 1-4 weeks. We can help you work with healthcare providers through platforms like Teladoc, K Health, Amwell, or MDLive to develop a personalized tapering plan that minimizes withdrawal risks.

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