Gabapentin W/D, transdermal magnesium for RLS

[DementiaSavantPlus]

This question may belong somewhere between basic drug and healthy living...

I am in a long process of tapering off of gabapentin. I recently lowered the dosage so some symptoms are showing, including morning anxiety and also what I perceive to be RLS. I also have a rigid feeling in my legs that makes it difficult to move, especially standing and pivoting (as opposed to walking). I notice it most when I am on my feet doing a task. It clears up as the day progresses and I take my staggered doses of gabapentin.

I have read that gabapentin may inhibit the utilization of magnesium. I just started supplementing with magnesium citrate again and it helps a little.

Would applying magnesium oil to the legs and feet help at all?

Does anyone have an idea of what this rigidity could be? Is it at all common for a GABA-related withdrawal?

Moderators, please move this if necessary.

 

[Maya]

Yes I would assume that rigidity is related to GABA withdrawal. I have not read any evidence that suggests that the use of magnesium oil on the legs and feet will help but it would not hurt to try to see if it alleviates the pain on your legs and feet. I would also suggest for you to try limb massage, or vibratory or electrical stimulation of the feet and toes before you go to bed at night time. Exercise does wonders and also some type of relaxation might also be helpful on this.

 

[Foreigner]

I'm moving this to OD because I'm not sure how to answer this question, and it doesn't really meet HL's posting guidelines.

 

[Hammilton]

That's not RLS. RLS is the need to move your legs incessantly, not some mild stiffness. It's related to Parkinson's, kind of, that sounds like the result of overuse.