Apr 14, 2025
Gabapentin, also called Neurontin, was originally approved by the FDA for seizure medication and nerve pain (specifically from shingles). Since then, however, it has risen in popularity for treating a number of off-label issues, including anxiety.
Using an off-label drug like Gabapentin isn’t always the best option, as it has not been approved by the FDA to treat anxiety. However, many people find anxiety relief from using Gabapentin, and it could be a good option when traditional anti-anxiety medications don’t work. To learn if Gabapentin is right for you, read on.
What Is Gabapentin?
Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant. When used to treat anxiety, Gabapentin works by mimicking a neurotransmitter known as GABA. GABA has a calming effect on the brain. It is a part of the system that regulates stress and anxiety, so Gabapentin—which mimics it—can have a similar, stress-relieving effect.
Gabapentin is an “Off-label” drug for anxiety, meaning it has not been officially approved by the FDA to treat anxiety because of insufficient evidence. However, that does not mean there is no evidence. Many promising studies have shown that Gabapentin is effective at treating certain anxiety disorders, especially social anxiety disorder and severe panic disorder, especially in people for whom other anxiety medications do not work. Other studies have shown potential for Gabapentin treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder as well.
Gabapentin is rarely prescribed for anxiety at first. More common medications such as Benzodiazepines or Busiprone will be prescribed first, and then if they do not work, Gabapentin might be considered. This is not because Gabapentin doesn’t work; rather, there haven’t been sufficient studies to prove that it definitely does. If you have already tried other anxiety medications and they have not worked, talk to your doctor about if Gabapentin is right for you.
For a list of more common anxiety medications, read our blog on anti-anxiety medications here.
Dosage
Gabapentin dosages for anxiety range from 300 mg-3600 mg daily, with higher dosages being divided into 3 doses a day.
Gabapentin can cause tiredness and therefore is most often taken at night, as it can help you sleep.
Side Effects
Gabapentin should never be taken with alcohol or opioids.
Potential side effects of Gabapentin include:
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Tremors
- Nystagmus (rapid eye movements you can’t control)
- Fluid buildup
- Weight gain
Serious, potentially fatal side effects include:
- Depression
- Mood changes in children, such as aggressive behavior
- Memory problems
- Severe skin rash
- Anaphylaxis
- Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
- Severe withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures, if stopped abruptly
- Slowed breathing and overdose when combined with opioids, benzodiazepines, or alcohol
Because of this, Gabapentin should never be taken with other medications unless specifically instructed to do so by a doctor. It should also be never combined with drugs and alcohol, including Xanax.
Never take Gabapentin unless prescribed by a doctor. Make sure to tell your doctor all vitamins and medications you are currently taking before taking Gabapentin.
Who Should Use Gabapentin for Anxiety?
Most often, Gabapentin is prescribed to people who experience little to no symptom relief on other anxiety medications, or who have a specific anxiety disorder like panic disorder or social anxiety disorder.
However, if you take SSRIs like an antidepressant or other medications, Gabapentin probably isn’t the best option for you as it can have considerable interactions with certain SSRIs and medications.
How Quickly Does Gabapentin Work for Anxiety?
Like all medications, it can take some time to find the right dosage of Gabapentin. Once you do, you can expect to feel improvements within 3 weeks. Some people experience symptom relief faster, and others need a little bit longer.
Other Treatments for Anxiety
Anxiety is a complex disorder and often needs a multi-tiered approach. Many people find symptom relief through medication and then use talk therapy to get to the root of their anxiety, learn coping skills, and unlearn anxious thinking patterns and habits.
Talk therapy has been proven to be effective at treating anxiety. Medication for anxiety is still a powerful tool, especially for severe anxiety.
If you are interested in either medication for anxiety or talk therapy for anxiety, contact Lifebulb. We have psychiatrists who can prescribe you medication for anxiety, including Gabapentin if that is necessary, and who work closely without therapists who can provide individual, one-on-one talk therapy. Together with our support team, Lifebulb is an effective team of providers dedicated to helping you feel better.
Contact our support team or browse our list of anxiety therapists and psychiatrists to find one that fits your needs near you.
