Gabapentin is a prescription medication known under brand names such as Neurontin or Gralise. It is primarily prescribed for certain types of seizures and neuropathic pain. However, gabapentin is also used off-label for a variety of other conditions that the FDA has not formally approved, including:
- Alcohol withdrawal
- Chronic cough
- Fibromyalgia
- Persistent hiccups
- Itching (pruritus)
- Restless legs syndrome (RLS)
- Social anxiety disorder
On average, gabapentin remains detectable in the body for approximately 45 hours, though different tests may identify it for varying durations.
How Long Does It Take for Gabapentin to Take Effect?
Gabapentin comes in both immediate-release and extended-release forms. Several factors influence how quickly it begins to work, such as a person’s age, kidney function and whether they are taking other medications. Because gabapentin treats a range of conditions, the timeframe for noticeable effects varies.
For example, sleep disturbances caused by nerve pain might improve within a week, although it can take up to two weeks for significant pain relief. Seizure improvements may be observed within several weeks. Alleviation of symptoms from restless legs syndrome or postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain following shingles) can take several days to weeks.
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How Long Do the Effects of Gabapentin Last?
While the exact way gabapentin functions is not fully understood, we know it slows certain brain signals. Gabapentin crosses the blood-brain barrier, where it exerts its effects. Daily doses may range from 300 mg to 3000 mg and can be adjusted or combined with other medications based on the condition treated.
Immediate-release gabapentin typically has a half-life of about 5–7 hours, prompting it to be taken three times daily. Although it can remain traceable for several times longer, the drug’s concentration usually becomes too low during that period to effectively prevent seizures or pain.
How Long Does It Take for Gabapentin Side Effects to Go Away?
Most common side effects fade within the first month of taking gabapentin. These may include:
- Anxiety
- Blurred vision
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Increased appetite
- Memory problems
- Nausea
- Fatigue or weakness
- Unsteadiness
- Vomiting
Because gabapentin has a relatively short half-life, side effects typically subside within a few days of stopping the medication.
What Is Gabapentin’s Half-Life?
Immediate-release gabapentin’s half-life is roughly 5–7 hours, although this can increase based on factors like patient age, kidney function and interactions with other substances. As the dose rises, the half-life may lengthen. For this reason, those with reduced kidney function may take gabapentin less frequently.
Horizant, the extended-release formulation, has a similar half-life but releases the drug more slowly, allowing once-daily dosing.
Is Gabapentin Detectable on a Drug Test?
Standard pre-employment or random drug screenings generally do not test for gabapentin. However, specialized tests may be conducted in certain treatment centers if gabapentin misuse is suspected.
How Long Does Gabapentin Stay in Urine?
Gabapentin can typically be found in urine for 1–2 days following use.
How Long Does Gabapentin Stay in Your Blood?
Gabapentin can be detected in the bloodstream for several hours and, depending on dosage, may remain traceable for up to two days.
How Long Does Gabapentin Stay in Your Hair?
Although hair follicle tests can detect substances within a 90-day period, gabapentin is not commonly included unless specifically requested.
Factors That Can Influence Gabapentin’s Duration in Your System
Gabapentin is not a federally controlled substance, but some states have begun regulating it due to escalating misuse. Research indicates a 40–65% misuse rate among those with prescriptions and 15–22% in groups using opioids, compared to about 1% in the general population.
Gabapentin often remains in the body for about 45 hours, but several factors can influence this timeline:
- Dosage: Higher amounts may accumulate in the body, extending how long it stays.
- Frequency of use: Regular use can build up blood levels, prolonging elimination.
- Age: Kidney function generally declines with age, slowing gabapentin clearance.
- Overall health: As gabapentin is filtered by the kidneys, impaired kidney function can dramatically increase how long it remains. In severe kidney failure, the half-life can reach 132 hours, potentially remaining in the body for about 28 days without dialysis.
How Is Gabapentin Metabolized?
Once taken, gabapentin is absorbed in the small intestine and then enters the bloodstream. It crosses into the brain to exert its effects. Unlike many medications, gabapentin is cleared primarily by the kidneys rather than the liver. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, gabapentin accumulates, which can greatly prolong its presence in the system.
Can You Stay on Gabapentin Long Term?
There is a possibility of developing tolerance to gabapentin, necessitating higher doses for the same effect. Still, long-term use may be considered safe in certain cases if side effects are manageable and the drug remains effective. Healthcare providers will monitor patients for ongoing efficacy and potential problems, such as persistent sedation, dizziness or memory issues, especially at higher doses.
What Are the Withdrawal Symptoms of Gabapentin?
Withdrawal symptoms generally emerge 12 hours to 7 days after the last dose. Stopping gabapentin abruptly can trigger seizures and other symptoms, including anxiety, insomnia, nausea or pain.
To mitigate withdrawal risks, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before discontinuing gabapentin. A medically supervised tapering process, gradually reducing the dose, is often the safest approach.
Help for Gabapentin Abuse and Addiction in Salem, OR
Although gabapentin is not classified under the Controlled Substances Act at the federal level, rising misuse rates have led some states to regulate it more tightly. Taking gabapentin in ways not prescribed or more frequently than instructed may indicate a misuse issue.
If you or a loved one struggles with gabapentin misuse or addiction, The Recovery Village Salem can help. Our services in Oregon provide a supportive environment for lasting recovery. We offer a full continuum of care, including medical detox, inpatient and outpatient treatment, partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) and online counseling. Contact us today to learn about gabapentin addiction treatment options suited to your needs.
