Can Gabapentin Cause Constipation as a Common Side Effect?

Gabapentin is a favored medication for treating individuals with neuropathic pain. As with other pain medications, gabapentin side effects can be uncomfortable. Serious side effects have also been observed, which can affect the user’s quality of life. Fortunately, constipation isn’t listed as a commonly experienced side effect.

What Class of Drug Does Gabapentin Belong To?

Gabapentin belongs to a class of drugs known as anticonvulsants.[1] Anti-convulsants work by slowing activity in the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal column.[2] Its actions are appropriate for treating individuals with seizures, particularly epilepsy. How gabapentin works in people with seizures is not fully understood. However, scientists think it works by increasing GABA production.[2]

In addition to treating individuals with epilepsy and postherpetic neuralgia, gabapentin can sometimes be prescribed for off-label uses.[3] In fact, 95% of gabapentin users were prescribed the medication for an off-label condition.[4]

The include:[5]

• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Complex regional pain syndrome
• Alcohol withdrawal seizures
• Drug withdrawal seizures
• Restless leg syndrome
• Trigeminal neuralgia
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Migraine

In addition to the above-listed ailments, this medication is sometimes used to treat mood disorders, including anxiety and bipolar disorder.[5]

Will Taking Gabapentin Cause Constipation?

Yes, unfortunately, though helpful, gabapentin can cause an array of side effects, including constipation, though it is not common.

The most common side effects of gabapentin include:[6]

• Anxiety
• Back pain
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty with memory
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Edema (swelling in the extremities, including feet and hands)
• Flu-like symptoms
• Headaches
• Lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Weight gain

Statistically, only 4% of gabapentin users experience constipation as a side effect.[7] Older adults, as well as people taking opioid painkillers or other prescription medications, may experience it more intensely than others.

How Will I Know if I’m Constipated After Taking Gabapentin?

If you experience trouble passing stool after taking gabapentin, it could be constipation. However, to diagnose it as such, you must meet one or more of the following criteria:[8]

• Have fewer than three bowel movements weekly
• Experience stools that are hard and difficult to pass
• Have stools that are dry or lumpy
• Have a feeling that you have not had a complete bowel movement

Constipation, which can occur as a rare side effect of taking gabapentin, is also a common condition affecting 16 out of 100 adults.[8]

When to Get Help for Taking Gabapentin?

Increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and doing gentle exercise might be enough to alleviate constipation symptoms.[9] If these methods don’t help, you could try an over-the-counter stool softener such as Metamucil, Milk of Magnesia, Colace, or Ducolax.[10] Should these options fail and you still haven’t had a bowel movement, consult a clinician. They may prescribe a stronger treatment like lubiprostone, which works by increasing fluid in the digestive system to facilitate stool passage.[10]

Will Taking Gabapentin with Another Drug Cause Constipation?

Yes, it is possible to develop constipation after taking gabapentin in combination with other medications. However, since there are many classes of drugs, it is difficult to specify which ones may cause constipation when used with gabapentin.

To ensure safety, always consult your pharmacist or prescribing physician before starting gabapentin along with any other prescription or over-the-counter medication. Some drugs can worsen the side effects of gabapentin or even lead to life-threatening complications.

Why Does Gabapentin Cause Constipation?

It is not known why some people experience constipation when taking gabapentin and others do not. However, if you experience any side effect that isn’t listed as ‘common,’ it should be reported to your prescribing physician; this includes constipation. Most likely, constipation experienced when taking gabapentin occurs for reasons outside of taking the medication. This includes poor fiber intake, low physical activity, and dehydration.[11]

Can Taking Too Much Gabapentin Lead to Constipation?

Taking too much gabapentin can result in gabapentin poisoning. According to Poison Control, gabapentin poisoning can cause serious, life-threatening complications, including:[12]

• Impaired coordination
• Low blood pressure
• Nausea, vomiting
• Rapid heartbeat
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Lethargy

Constipation is not listed as an effect of taking too much gabapentin.

When Should I Seek Medical Advice About Gabapentin Toxicity?

If you take gabapentin in any way other than prescribed, you risk an overdose. This includes taking more than prescribed, taking doses too close together, or using it illicitly — such as crushing and snorting the powder or injecting it — and doubling doses.

If you have taken more gabapentin than prescribed, you are at risk of a gabapentin overdose. The signs of an overdose can appear quickly and unexpectedly, so if you think you have taken more than you should, call Poison Control immediately. If you experience signs of gabapentin toxicity, seek medical attention right away. In severe cases, gabapentin overdose can lead to lethargy, coma, and death.[12]

Finding Help for Gabapentin Abuse

Are you using gabapentin in a way other than prescribed or to avoid stress or withdrawal symptoms? This may indicate drug dependence.[13]

Using gabapentin beyond the prescribed duration or in an unapproved manner can lead to tolerance, making it harder to experience its benefits without increasing your dose beyond safe limits. Over time, your body may become reliant on gabapentin, and stopping it can be painful or difficult. Withdrawal can even cause serious complications, including seizures, which may make quitting on your own challenging.

At Engage Wellness Acton, we understand how difficult it can be to break free from addiction and dependence. We offer the tools and support you need to overcome gabapentin addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. Our programs also teach strategies to help prevent relapse.

To learn more about these programs and how they can help you in your struggle with gabapentin abuse, contact us today.

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