I have gone off of gabapentin a few times because I hate the thought of taking it forever too. The pain and electricity went out of control and I had to go back on. It makes me so damn tired. I finally started taking my three daily doses just before bed. I fall asleep immediately and I don't wake up during the night in pain. My doctor did not tell me that this was harmful, just not correct because you should have it in your system at all times. It works for me though, probably because I am very active all day with the horses. I got so sick of feeling down and cappy that I decided to fight this thing tooth and nail. I am trying things that I never would habe made time for before and I power through. It's great if you can stay distracted through physical activity (two birds).. Please ask your doc before following my method of taking gabapentin. Good luck to you