Benzos Klonopin for Neurontin WD?

[tom80]

Hi, my Dr just switched me from Neurontin 900mg 3 times/day to Klonopin 1mg 3x/day. I was wondering if I'll go through any WD effects from abruptly stopping the Neurontin or will the klonopin mask the WDs? I've heard opposing opinions so far and would really appreciate some input.

Thanks,
Tom

 

[tricomb]

I'm not sure, what did your doctor say when you asked him that question?

 

[belfort]

how bad is your neurontin withdrawal?many say they didnt get any withdrawals after quitting...how long were u taking the neurontin??

i imagine sporadic use of k-pins would be fine for quitting neurontin..

 

[tricomb]

I would call your doctor and ask, if you didn't ask during the appointment for whatever reason. However mild to severe the withdrawals may be, no patient should have to cold-switch medications like that, they should have still tapered down the gabapentin and titrate up the clonazepam IMO.

 

[bronson]

The way this reads the WDs are about like that benzos produce so since you are switching directly I think you should be fine.

Withdrawal

Gabapentin should not be discontinued abruptly after long term use. Abrupt or over rapid withdrawal may provoke a withdrawal syndrome reminiscent to alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal. Gradual reduction over a period of weeks or months helps minimize or prevents the withdrawal syndrome.

Side effects upon discontinuation of gabapentin that have been reported in medical literature include insomnia, restlessness, agitation, anxiety, disorientation, confusion, light sensitivity, diaphoresis, headaches, palpitations, hypertension, chest pain, and flu-like symptoms. In one case, abrupt cessation of a high dose of gabapentin triggered a seizure in an individual with no history of epilepsy. (Source)

If you find it is giving you WD symptoms though, talk to your doctor, as it may be necessary to taper down and then start on the Klonopin (Clonazepam). Everyone reacts differently.

Best of luck to you.