Neurontin In Generic form it is Gabapentin Review

Overall 3.50 of 5 view all 8 reviews

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riddles4gollum
Martinez, CA

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1st stabilizer to work without "flatlining" me

Pros

keeps bipolar in check, covered by Insurance, many uses

MAR

2008

I have been taking Neurontin for about 8 years now for bipolar disorder. I am one of those folks out there who is intolerant to almost all psychiatric medications. I have taken the SSRI's, tricyclics, old and new antipsychotics, tranquilizers, and of course mood stablizers. I had to stop every single one due to intolerable (and sometimes downright BIZARRE side effects). Other mood stabilizers tend to cause a sort of "flat line" effect. They take care of the mania and depression by causing my brain to feel no emotion, which for me, is not an acceptable way to live.

Neurontin helps stabilize me by lowering the overall range of swings I get. I still get a little high and a little low, but not too far in either direction. I cannot think of any side effects that I have experienced except occassional concentration problems and forgetfullness (but that's also part of my disorder).

Every bipolar is different, and all of our imbalances are caused by different triggers. Neurontin specifically targets GABA neurotransmitters in the brain. Neurontin is sort of a "Jack of all trades" as it is also used for seizures, nerve pain, etc. I also have extensive nerve pain from an auto accident a few years ago and have frequent bouts of sciatica. I can't say that I have noticed any benefit for pain, but again, I have been on it for 8 years. So, perhaps I would notice a difference if I didn't take it.