I have been on Gabapentin since 1998 following c/3-c/4 lamanectomy that caused nerve pain mostlly in the right side of my back and chest. Some additionally in my right hand and right foot. I have, over the course of the past many years, tried all of the anti seizure drugs in combination with Gabapentin. But, it has been my drug of choice. Last year I added Cymbalta, and while it may have helped some I did not like the side effects. Since about April or May my pain level has increased. At first I attributed it to a change in manufacturer of Gabapentin. (I have experienced problems with that before.) Then when I returned to the damp Northwest from the dry desert where I spend my winters I blamed the weather. But, even on dry good days Gabapentin does not seem to cut the pain like it used to do. I have added some Topamax and it "may" help a little for a short time, but not much. Until April of last year I had reduced my intake of Gabapentin from 4200 mg per day to 3200 now I am up to 4800 or higher.
For some time my doctor had wanted me to try Lyrica. However, as I was doing OK on Gabapentin I never saw any real reason to switch and the price was so much higher. Any comments?
Thanks

what dosage of topomax are you on? lyrica is a more potent version of neurontin and I believe 600mg is the max but should stop P/n pain in an elephant at the does

I was only taking .25 mg per day. I am now taking .25 mg 2 to 3 times per day.

I switched after 5+ years, from neurontin to Lyrica
when the neurontin wasn't working as well as it used to.
It was a good move. I suggest you give the Lyrica a try.
I was on 4200mg neurontin and am now on 600mg of Lyrica.
I titrated up to 450 mgs first, but 600 is more effective.

Hi ~ You need a MUCH higher dose of Topamax. I'm on 400mg per day and it works GREAT. it takes away ALL the burning/stinging ~ and I've had sciatica for 25 years. I like it much more than Neurontin! That makes you retain water - Topamax does not. Just thought I'd mention that if you were on a much higher dose, you'd have much better luck. God bless. Hugs, Lee

I did not retain water (edema) on either neurontin or Lyrica.
Not everyone's the same. Topamax made me lose my memory for 3 months
It was like waking from a nightmare when I finally stopped at 450mgs. Topamax was terrible at higher doses, but had no effect on my PN pain, even at 400mgs.
I think Lyrica is a godsend.