Neuropathy questions, answered
Gabapentin and Lyrica for neuropathy: what they do and don't do
By Dr. Jill Althoff, DC, founder of Althoff Wellness Clinic in Cheyenne, Wyoming. In practice since 2003 and author of two books on neuropathy.Short answer
Gabapentin and Lyrica (pregabalin) are prescription medications that can reduce how strongly the nervous system registers nerve pain. They don't repair damaged nerves or address why the neuropathy started. Many of my patients tell me the relief was partial and that side effects bothered them. Never stop or change these medications on your own; any change should be planned with the doctor who prescribed them.
What patients tell me
When new patients come in, many are already taking gabapentin or Lyrica. The most common thing I hear is that it "takes the edge off" but doesn't make a big difference. Some tell me it didn't seem to help at all.
I also hear a lot about side effects: feeling "off," foggy thinking, drowsiness, and dizziness. A few patients have described more serious reactions. If you notice side effects, tell your prescriber.
What these medications are designed to do
These drugs work on the nervous system to quiet the pain signals the brain receives. That can be helpful, and for some people it's an important part of getting through the day.
What they are not designed to do is heal the nerves. They don't change circulation, inflammation, blood sugar, or nutrition, the things I look at when I'm trying to figure out why someone's nerves aren't healing.
"Can I come off my medication?"
We don't take anyone off their medications. That decision belongs to you and the doctor who prescribed them, and these drugs should never be stopped suddenly.
Here's how we approach it. Our first step is figuring out what's going on in your body and starting care. If your symptoms improve, we can reach out to your primary care provider so the two of you can talk about whether it makes sense to lower your dose over time.
Medication and our care can work together
You don't have to choose. Many of our patients continue their medications while we work on the reasons behind their symptoms. Our care focuses on circulation, nerve function, balance, and nutrition; your prescriber manages your medications.
More from Dr. A on neuropathy
This page is educational and is not a substitute for medical advice. Individual results vary.