Don't rule out medications out of fear of side effects before trying them!!!! I take gabapentin, and although I would love to have no side effects, they aren't too bad! I have some short term memory type lapses/forgetfulness, but other than gaining 10 lbs, I don't have too many other side effects. Lyrica is a great one and I didn't gain any weight on that one...I am thinking about switching back to Lyrica!