Heartburn caused by Gabapentin after 18 months?
 

All,

I have Idiopathic PN of both feet, but I keep searching for an answer while trying to control things. I used to take Gabapentin 1800 mg/day but had intolerable constipation. I switched to 1200 mg per day of Gralise (i.e., extended release Gabapentin) for 18 months now, and I have few side effects.

For a long time (I can't recall how long) I've had a mild sour taste in my mouth, with no other GERD symptoms. Recently, I started having intense heartburn.

Given that GERD is a common reaction to Gabapentin, and my history of troubles with it, I can't discount the possibility my body is reacting to the Gralise.

I'm not sure and am wondering, have others had sudden reactions to a drug they've been on for some time, particularly Gabapetin/Gralise?

I am shocked to hear gaba caused heartburn as I have acid reflux and even supplements will cause horrid symptoms. I am not on a high dose gaba but my side effects are few. Granted I plead the blood of Jesus every time I take a medication that only positive effects will heal and help and negative effects be flushed away.

I had concerns about constipation as it appeared to start but I upped my magnesium, flaxseeds, chlorophyll, vitc, all the items that generally help with that I made sure to continue if not up some of them.

But gaba has stopped working for me, I cant even tell I am taking it now so I am weening myself off it to see if I completely stop if my pain changes while I wait for my next dr app. next week.

There are lots of things I do for my acid reflux though I do not know if they would help you if the medication is causing that strong reaction. I stay on probiotics, Braggs Apple Cider Vinegar & baking soda, chlorophyll and such to keep me alkaline.

good luck!

Yes, as far as I know it is. MedlinePlus lists it as a side effect, and Rxlist's it under Dyspepsia - a general catch all.

I seem to recall some on this forum saying they had that problem?

If I am mistaken please correct me. That would mean it is not Gabapentin.

You're not mistaken, but I wouldn't say it means it is unequivocally the gabapentin either—too many unknowns/variables.

Forgive me if this has been covered; are you taking it on an empty stomach?
Doc

Yes, agreed there are too many unknowns. Still, I thought I would check.

As a matter of fact, I take it before bedtime just because it is easier to remember. I don't recall reading that or maybe I thought it not as pertinent. Regardless, thanks for the tip. I will switch to the evening meal. It is an easy try.

Thanks!

I meant shocked as in surprised since I am so easily plagued by acid reflux, shocked it has not done it to me and I take it on an empty stomach.

Dang medicine, always a down side. Hope you find relief.

Sorry didn't mean to take it that way.

I am shocked myself because I rarely have GERD.

Thanks for the positive vibes. I might just try a few things you suggested.

I used to feel acid reflux, and was on gabapentin (still am), but it went away when I went to a nearly all plant-based diet. When I eat a lot of meat or a lot of vegetable oil, the reflux feeling comes back.
Ron