Gabapentin for Anxiety: What You Need to Know
Learn how gabapentin works and why you may be prescribed this medication for anxiety. Insights from our psychiatrists.
Key takeaways
Whether you’re already taking gabapentin for an anxiety disorder or are curious if you might benefit from it, you may be wondering how effective it is, how it works, and if there are side effects.
Here we’ll cover everything you need to know about gabapentin for anxiety.
What is Gabapentin?
Gabapentin is a prescription drug or medication that is FDA-approved to treat nerve pain and seizure disorders. It also has other uses—including treating anxiety disorders—though it has not been FDA-approved to be used for this purpose. This use of gabapentin for the treatment of anxiety is referred to as an off-label use, meaning there is limited data on its effectiveness to treat anxiety. Other off-label uses include treating alcohol withdrawal for alcohol use disorder and hot flashes associated with menopause.
Gabapentin is sold under the brand names Horizant®, Gralise® and Neurontin®.
Because there is limited research on how effective gabapentin is at reducing anxiety symptoms, it’s not typically the first medication a licensed physician will recommend for treating anxiety.
Antidepressant medications like SSRIs and SNRIs are most likely to be prescribed first due to their effectiveness and safety. If these other treatment options aren’t successful or appropriate, a doctor may prescribe gabapentin.
How does Gabapentin work?
Gabapentin works by mimicking a neurotransmitter in the brain called GABA. GABA has a calming effect on the brain and impaired functioning of GABA has been linked to various mental health conditions such as panic disorder and depression.
It’s important to note that the medication gabapentin isn’t a synthetic or lab-made form of GABA. It works by mimicking GABA. It slows down or stops messages from being sent between nerve cells—this results in a reduction of pain associated with nerve damage as well as the prevention of seizures.
While it's true that GABA plays a role in anxiety, anxiety is complex, and researchers are still trying to figure out how and if gabapentin might work to ease symptoms of moderate or severe anxiety. Based on some promising studies, some scientists and doctors agree that it may be helpful for treating social anxiety disorder and severe panic disorder (frequent panic attacks) in people who don’t respond to other treatments.
To learn more about the different type of anxiety disorders, check out: An Overview of the 5 Major Types of Anxiety Disorders
Taking Gabapentin for Anxiety
If you are prescribed gabapentin for anxiety —like any medication—it's important to take it exactly as directed. The dose you are prescribed will depend on your response to the medication and your specific needs. You’ll likely start on a low dose and then your provider will work with you to increase your dose based on your response and symptoms. If you aren’t responding to treatment for example, your doctor may suggest a higher dose or a different medication.
If you’re living with anxiety, you’re likely eager to manage your symptoms, especially if you’ve tried various treatment options. Keep in mind that finding the right medication can take time and while it can be difficult, it’s important to remain patient with the process. Not taking your medication as directed can lead to increased side effects and safety issues.
Your prescribing physician should walk you through the specific instructions on how to take your medication, the side effects to look out for, and set expectations for how long the medication will take to help reduce your anxiety symptoms.
Potential side effects of Gabapentin
Like all medications, gabapentin can come with side effects. The side effects are usually mild and go away as your body adjusts to the medication. If you experience mild side effects, be sure to continue taking your medication as directed. Stopping your medication suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Some common side effects include:
- Drowsiness or dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Mood changes
- Swelling in the arms and legs
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
- Erectile dysfunction
- Weight gain
- Memory problems
- Headaches
- Getting sick more than usual
If you experience any side effects, be sure to report them to your doctor. They may suggest adjusting the dose of your medication or trying a different option.
Some rare but serious side effects can also occur. Reading about side effects can be anxiety-inducing so if you are concerned about the side effects of a medication, be sure to chat with your doctor. Your doctor is there to help you weigh the pros and cons of taking medication and you should always feel like the benefits of taking medication outweigh any risks. That said, some serious side effects include:
- Thoughts of harming or killing yourself
- A high temperature
- Swollen glands
- Yellowing of eyes or skin
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Severe fatigue or weakness
- Unexpected muscle pain or muscle weakness, with or without a rash
- Hallucinations
- Long-lasting stomach pain or vomiting
If you experience any of these symptoms call your healthcare provider or 911 right away.
How long does it take for gabapentin to work for anxiety?
It may take some time to find a dose of gabapentin that works for you, but generally, once you’ve settled on the right dose, you may begin to see improvements in around 3 weeks or less. Everyone will respond differently to medication and it may take more or less time to see a change in your anxiety levels. Try and remain patient with the process and always take your medication as directed by your doctor.
Gabapentin alternatives
Gabapentin is one option for treating anxiety but it’s not the only option. Depending on your needs and medical history your doctor may recommend a different type of medication. Here are some other medications commonly used to treat anxiety:
- Antidepressants, including SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors). These work by increasing the availability of certain neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) in the brain that affect your mood. Balancing the levels of these chemicals can result in a decrease in anxiety symptoms. It may take a few weeks to see the full effects of these medications.
- Anti-anxiety medications, including benzodiazepines and Buspar (buspirone). They work by increasing the availability of GABA in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps you feel calm. Anti-anxiety medications work more quickly than gabapentin and are sometimes recommended to treat symptoms of short-term or acute anxiety disorders like panic disorder.
- Beta blockers are a type of medication typically used to treat high blood pressure or heart conditions and they can also be helpful for treating performance-related anxiety like public speaking. They work by blocking adrenaline—a neurotransmitter responsible for many of the physical symptoms of anxiety like increased heart rate, shaking, trembling, and rapid breathing. Beta-blockers are only used ‘off-label’ for treating anxiety. Meaning the FDA has not approved their use for anxiety but there is some evidence suggesting they may be helpful.
Depending on the severity of your anxiety and if you have other mental health conditions in addition to an anxiety disorder, your doctor may recommend a type of medication that is not included on this list. Your doctor may also recommend other treatment options, like cognitive behavioral therapy, alongside taking medication.
Learn more about different types of anxiety medication and which is best for you.
The bottom line
Gabapentin is a prescription medication that is FDA-approved to treat nerve pain and seizure disorders. Although research is limited, some studies suggest gabapentin may also be effective in treating anxiety disorders. Some doctors will prescribe it for this purpose—most often for people who don’t respond to other treatment options.
Anxiety disorders are complex and treatment with either medications, therapy like cognitive behavioral therapy or both can be highly effective for managing symptoms. If you are living with an anxiety disorder or think you might be, take the first step and book and appointment with a health professional like a primary care doctor, psychiatrist, or therapist. They will be able to work with you to find the best treatment option for your needs.
Getting treatment for anxiety
If you’re ready to get treated for anxiety but aren’t sure where to start, take our free 10-minute assessment. You can find out if Talkiatry is right for you and get matched with a psychiatrist that takes your insurance and can see you from the comfort of home.
If you’d like to learn more about how psychiatrists can treat anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder, or social phobia, and whether or not a psychiatrist might be right for you, check out: Online Anxiety Treatment
Anxiety FAQs
When should I seek help for anxiety?
Anxious thoughts can be a normal part of life but if unwanted thoughts are making it hard to go about your day, this is a sign you should seek professional support. Psychiatry can help. You can see if Talkiatry is right for you by taking a free 10-minute assessment.
Is anxiety medication safe?
Prescription anxiety medication is FDA-approved and safe. Your psychiatrist or prescribing doctor should help you navigate your options for medications and answer any questions you have about the benefits and side effects of each medication.
About Talkiatry
Talkiatry is a national psychiatry practice that provides in-network, virtual care. Co-founded by a patient and a triple-board-certified psychiatrist, Talkiatry has over 300 doctors, 60 insurance partners, and first visits available in days. We treat patients with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), ADHD, and more. Get started with a short online assessment.
The information in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and should never be substituted for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. If you or someone you know may be in danger, call 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away.
Sources
GoodRx Health | Gabapentin for Anxiety: Dosing, Side Effects, and More
IUPHAR/BPS Guide to Pharmacology |Gabapentin
Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience | Psychiatric Uses of Gabapentin
Mental Health America | What is GABA?
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry | The Role of GABA in Anxiety Disorders
FDA (Food and Drug Administration) | Gabapentin Fact Sheet
Gabapentin Treatment for Alcohol Dependence: A Randomized Controlled Trial | NCBI
