How does Gabapentin work for fibromyalgia?

It is still unclear how gabapentin helps relieve fibromyalgia pain as the root of fibromyalgia still remains a mystery. However, researchers believe that it has to do with how gabapentin binds to a particular calcium channel in neurons; the binding hinders the cellular flow of calcium which dampens the activity of signaling molecules contributing to pain.

Gabapentin is also observed to be more effective in reducing chronic pain as compared to acute pain. Animal studies showed that the analgesic effect of gabapentin is especially effective in pain resulting from an amplified response to stimuli associated to inflammation or nerve injury. It is believed that fibromyalgia patients will reap the same results.

Gabapentin is also known to improve your sleeping cycle which in turn plays a positive role in the improvement of fibromyalgia.

Side effects of Gabapentin

Some of the common side effects of Gabapentin include:

• Loss of coordination and balance

• Dizziness and drowsiness

• Double vision

The side effects of the drug usually goes away gradually as the body gets accustomed to the drug. However, look out for more severe side effects such as the following and seek medical attention immediately. The more concerning side effects are:

• Swelling of feet and hands giving a puffy appearance

• Rash or itch

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

• seizures

Keep in mind that not all patients will benefit from Gabapentin. It is better to consult your doctor before you start consuming Gabapentin for treating fibromyalgia.

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1. United States. National Institute of Health. Gabapentin Shown Effective for Fibromyalgia Pain. 11 June 2007. Web. Accessed on: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/gabapentin-shown-effective-fibromyalgia-pain
2. Moore R A. et al. Gabapentin for chronic neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia in adults. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Accessed on: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0014677/
3. United States. National Library of Medicine. Medline Plus. U.S National Library of Medicine. U.S. National Library of Medicine, Web. Accessed on: https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a694007.html