Gabapentin

Medically Reviewed by Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jun 21, 2022

Side Effects


What are gabapentin (Neurontin) side effects?


Common side effects of gabapentin are listed below. Tell your doctor if these adverse effects are severe or do not improve over time.

  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Swelling of the hands and feet
  • Headache
  • Tiredness
  • Unsteadiness
  • Uncontrolled shaking
  • Anxiety
  • Memory problems
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Heartburn
  • Dry mouth
  • Increased appetite
  • Weight gain
  • Red, itchy eyes
  • Fever, runny nose, cough, sneezing, flu-like symptoms
  • Back pain or joint pain
  • Ear pain

Some adverse effects of gabapentin can be serious. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience side effects such as:

  • Rash
  • Itching
  • Hoarseness
  • Swelling of the throat, mouth, lips, hands, feet
  • Problems with swallowing or breathing
  • Seizures
  • Bluish tinge to the lips, skin, or fingernails
  • Confusion
  • Extreme sleepiness


The above list may not include all the potential side effects of gabapentin. Speak to your doctor if you have severe side effects or the side effects do not go away. You can also report unusual gabapentin side effects to the Food and Drug Administration at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Gabapentin Overdose: If you think you have taken too much lisinopril, contact a poison control center and go to an emergency room immediately. 

NOTE: Gabapentin is a prescription medication to be used only by you. Never share prescription drugs with others or use someone else’s medication.

Source: FDA